GOP senator apologizes after boos for ‘both genders’ remarks

Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) apologized Monday after being booed by a crowd during a commencement address at the University of Wyoming for saying it was a “fundamental scientific truth” that there were only “two sexes”.

Lummis said “it was never my intention to make anyone feel unwelcome or disrespected”, and apologized to those who were made to feel that way, according to Oil City News.

“My reference to the existence of two sexes was intended to highlight the era in which we find ourselves, a time when the metric of biological sex is under debate with potential implications for the shared value of sex. ‘equality in Wyoming,’ the statement said.

During the start address On Sunday, Lummis said constitutional rights were under attack in the United States and that “even fundamental scientific truths such as the existence of two sexes, male and female, are subject to challenge these days.”

The remark immediately drew a loud chorus of boos from the crowd, as Lummis paused for an awkward smile.

“You know, I…” Lummis said, then waved her hand dismissively. “I challenge those of you. I am not commenting on the fact that there are people who go from one sex to another.

Lummis then moved on to another topic, ignoring the crowd’s repeated boos.

Ed Seidel, president of the University of Wyoming issued a statement on Lummis’ remarks without naming the senator.

“One of our lecturers made remarks regarding biological sex that many on campus dispute,” he said. “While we respect the right of everyone to express their opinions, from students to elected officials, we unequivocally declare that UW is an institution that supports and celebrates its diverse communities that collectively make us the wonderful place that we are.”

Republican-led states have implemented a series of transphobic laws, including a directive from Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) to investigate parents who allow their child to receive gender-affirming care.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (right) has banned discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation from kindergarten through third grade. Several red states have also banned transgender girls from participating in women’s sports.

Other GOP lawmakers and politicians in local, state and federal offices have made inflammatory comments against the trans community, which has one of the highest suicide rates in the nation.

Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) said gender-affirming care was “almost grotesque” earlier this month, while in Michigan, GOP state senators accused Democrats of “ groom” the kids because they stood up for transgender rights.

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