Trump Administration Says San Jose State Broke Law Over Transgender Athlete

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The Trump administration has concluded that San Jose State University discriminated against women by allowing a transgender athlete to play on the women's volleyball team. The Education Department offered the university a deal to resolve the case, which would require San Jose State to accept the administration's definition of 'male' and 'female,' restore titles and records 'misappropriated by male athletes,' and issue an apology to female athletes.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate over transgender athletes' participation in women's sports, with the Trump administration taking a stance that it sees as protecting the rights of cisgender female athletes, while critics argue it discriminates against transgender individuals.

The details

The Trump administration claims San Jose State University broke the law by allowing a transgender athlete to compete on the women's volleyball team. The university was offered a deal to resolve the case, which would require it to accept the administration's definitions of gender, restore records 'misappropriated by male athletes,' and apologize to female athletes.

• The Trump administration made its conclusion on January 28, 2026.

What’s next

It is unclear if San Jose State University will accept the deal offered by the Trump administration or pursue further legal action.