On June 30, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld state laws that prevent transgender athletes from participating in women's sports. In a concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas wrote that "men and boys with gender dysphoria are not women or girls, even if they believe that they are."

Justice Thomas further stated, "Sex is an immutable ‘biological’ characteristic; it is binary; and ‘man’ and ‘woman,’ ‘boy’ and ‘girl,’ are the terms that correspond to adults and children of each sex."

He added, "To use language to obscure reality to show ‘indifference regarding the truth’— is to lie to the public and cease to treat our fellow citizens ‘as equal[s].’"

Conservative public figures rallied around Justice Thomas' concurrence, celebrating his defense of biological sexual differences. For example, evolutionary biologist Colin Wright and conservative influencer Allie Beth Stuckey expressed support for the ruling.

Texas state Representative Jeff Leach also commented on the ruling, using a flame emoji to suggest approval.

In contrast, ACLU senior counsel Joshua Block described the ruling as "heartbreaking" for transgender girls seeking equal opportunities, stating this in a message provided to Fox News Digital.

The ruling and Justice Thomas' concurring opinion have sparked significant discussion across political and social spheres in the United States.

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