Jon Tester Speaks Out on Trans Athletes After Losing Re-Election

Jon Tester finally said what most people already believe. He lost his re-election in 2024. Now, he has nothing to lose. So, he decided to speak the truth.

During an interview on HBO’s Real Time With Bill Maher, Tester agreed with California Governor Gavin Newsom. That alone was surprising enough. But what he said next really made headlines. Tester said men should not compete in women’s sports. He called it “a bunch of crap.”

Jon Tester Now Says the Issue Is ‘Overblown’

So, to recap: Tester believes it’s unfair, says it shouldn’t happen, and calls it ridiculous. But then, he tries to downplay it. Classic politician move.

A recent New York Times/Ipsos poll found that 79% of Americans agree with Tester’s statement. Even among Democrats, 67% believe trans athletes should not compete in women’s sports. That’s not a small number. But Tester still says it’s not that important.

Jon Tester Says Congress Should Focus on ‘Real Issues’

Meanwhile, a national exit poll by the Concerned Women for America found that 70% of moderate voters think this issue is important. That’s a majority. And 6% said it was their number one issue. That’s millions of voters. But Tester thinks Congress should be focused elsewhere.

He said, “This has been blown way out of proportion.” He complained that Congress is talking about this instead of real issues. But the voters clearly care about this issue. Politicians love to tell people what should matter to them.

Jon Tester Finally Says What He Should Have Said Sooner

Tester waited until he lost to say what he actually thinks. That’s not bravery. That’s not leadership. That’s just bad timing. If he had said this during his campaign, maybe he would still have a job.

Politicians only seem to find their voices when it doesn’t matter anymore. He knows what the voters think. He knows where the majority stands. But he didn’t have the nerve to say it before losing.

Jon Tester Is Out, But His Words Will Stick Around

Tester is out of office. His career is likely over. But now, his words are making headlines. He finally said the quiet part out loud. But it’s too little, too late.