On Wednesday, House Speaker and Louisiana Republican leader Mike Johnson made a controversial statement concerning toilets in the Capitol building. Reuters reported that Johnson stated individuals of each biological sex must adhere to designated single-sex bathrooms. His declaration comes in light of the election of Congress’ first openly transgender member, Democrat Sarah McBride.
The Capitol toilet issue has become a subject of discussion after Republican Representative Nancy Mace introduced a bill to impose the restriction. She then admitted that her attempt to ban transgender women from female bathrooms inside the building directly targeted McBride.
Mike Johnson causes a stir with controversial Capitol bathroom statement
Mike Johnson issued a statement, noting that trans women should be banned from single-sex toilets in the Capitol as “women deserve women’s only spaces.” Johnson stated that such bathrooms inside the building should reserved for “individuals of that biological sex.” He further noted that members can use bathrooms available inside their private offices or opt for unisex bathrooms inside the building. However, the former option is a 10-minute walk from the House floor, where members attend sessions.
Johnson’s statement comes after Representative Nancy Mace introduced a resolution to ban trans women from single-sex Capitol toilets. According to NBC News, reporters asked Mace if the action was a direct response to Democrat Sarah McBride’s election, who will soon join Congress as the first openly transgender person. The Republican politician responded with affirmative and continued, “I’m absolutely 100% gonna stand in the way of any man who wants to be in a women’s restroom, in our locker rooms, in our changing rooms.”
McBride also responded to Mike Johnson’s Capitol toilet issue statement, calling it a diversion. She issued a statement, claiming her responsibilities are more than just a “fight about bathrooms.” She then assured her fellow Delaware natives, “I’m here to fight for all Delawareans and to bring down costs facing families”
