Trump admin cuts funding to Maine universities as state defies order to ban trans athletes from women's sports
FOX News5 days ago
US Agriculture Department Suspends $30M to University of Maine
Above: The University of Maine women's hockey team playing against Boston University at Agganis Arena on Oct. 19, 2024, in Boston, Massachusetts. Image copyright: Andrew Katsampes/Contributor/ISI Photos/Getty Images Sport via Getty Images
The Facts
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) paused its funding of the University of Maine's (UMaine) youth farming program, known as 4-H, on Tuesday over the university's decision not to prohibit transgender athletes from girls' sports.
UMaine said the USDA sent an email that stated the pause is "temporary" pending an agency probe into potential "Title VI or Title IX violations," adding that it has been expecting to receive $32.4M in the coming months or years. The university said it received about $30M last year.
The 4-H program, according to the university, is used to support "the state's farmers, fishermen and foresters," as well as promote "youth leadership development" and safeguard Maine's environment and marine life, among other things.
The Spin
Right narrative
Maine’s government is blowing the USDA’s funding suspension out of proportion, crying foul over a justified pause until it stops forcing girls to compete against biological males in sports. It's undeniably unfair to allow trans athletes to compete in women’s sports — but Maine doubles down, even silencing dissenting opinions in the state legislature. Its reaction to federal pushback ultimately undermines the interests of its own constituents.
Left narrative
Maine's defiance of federal funding threats shows it’s fighting for all constituents, including trans kids, who deserve to play sports that align with their gender identity. State officials are upholding their rights under the Maine Human Rights Act despite opposition from a vocal minority. Trans inclusion doesn’t harm anyone; it’s about fairness for all, not just cisgender girls, and Maine's stance protects both.