Conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro recently joined U.S. Senate candidate Eric Hovde on the campaign trail in Wisconsin, focusing on key issues including Title IX policies.
The event, held at Wyldewood Baptist Church in Oshkosh, featured a roundtable discussion where local parents, students, and school board members shared their concerns about the impact of gender-inclusive policies in schools. Shapiro emphasized the importance of the Senate race, stating that Hovde's victory is crucial for maintaining Republican control in the Senate.
Title IX and Gender-Inclusive Policies
The discussion centered around the recent decision by the Oshkosh Area School District Board of Education to pass new Title IX rules. Participants expressed concerns that allowing transgender students to use bathrooms and participate in sports based on their identified gender could negatively impact other students. Hovde echoed these sentiments, arguing that while there should be protection for transgender students, their rights should not override those of the majority of students.
Hovde also addressed the issue of fairness in sports, citing his daughter's athletic career as an example. He argued that allowing transgender boys to compete in girls' sports would be unfair and could rob female athletes of opportunities. He emphasized the need for public schools to prioritize core subjects like math, reading, and writing over gender-inclusive policies, given that nearly two-thirds of Wisconsin public school students are not meeting proficiency standards in these areas.
Reactions and Criticisms
The event drew criticism from various groups, including 'Hate Free Outagamie' and the Democrat Party of Wisconsin. Critics argued that the rhetoric used by Hovde and Shapiro was divisive and designed to spread fear and discrimination against vulnerable populations. The Democrat Party of Wisconsin described Shapiro as an 'anti-abortion, right-wing podcaster' who, along with Hovde, has made insulting statements about many Wisconsinites.
Hovde is running against incumbent Senator Tammy Baldwin for one of Wisconsin's U.S. Senate seats, making this campaign stop a significant moment in the race.
