California Gov. Gavin Newsom missed a call from President Donald Trump on Wednesday as the war of words over transgender athletes hit the state’s high school track scene – and Trump’s social media feed.
The call followed a fiery post from Trump on Tuesday slamming Newsom over a transgender athlete who recently qualified for the state championships in two track and field events. The athlete is set to compete this weekend in Clovis, according to local news station KTVO.
Newsom’s office confirmed on Wednesday that the Democratic governor received a call from Trump, but told FOX26 News that he was at an event and unable to connect. A spokesperson said Newsom hopes to speak to the president soon, according to the station.
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The issue follows Trump’s Feb. 5 executive order barring transgender women and girls from competing in female sports under federally funded programs. The president has threatened to pull federal dollars from California if the individual is allowed to compete at the state finals.
“California, under the leadership of Radical Left Democrat Gavin Newscum, continues to ILLEGALLY allow 'MEN TO PLAY IN WOMEN’S SPORTS,'" Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Tuesday.
“This is a totally ridiculous situation!!!" he concluded.