WASHINGTON, DC – The Republican congressman representing eastern Washington went on the House floor this week and called out Washington’s policies regarding transgender athletes in sports.
Representative Michael Baumgartner used the platform to congratulate West Valley High School runner Lauren Matthew, who he says was the “rightful winner” of the 2A girls 400 meter dash.
The actual winner was Veronica Garcia, a transgender runner from East Valley High School who won the state title for the second year in a row.
Garcia finished with a time of 55.70; Matthew came in at 56.75.
The WIAA allows for athletes to compete in sports based on the gender with which they identify, saying that follows state and federal law.
Rep. Baumgartner disagrees.
“Everybody deserves dignity and respect—but fairness matters, too,” Rep. Baumgartner said in his speech. “As a father of daughters, I believe every young woman deserves the chance to compete on a level playing field and have her hard work honored. This isn’t just about one race—it’s about standing up for the integrity of women’s sports and recognizing the commitment these athletes bring to the track every day.”
Rep. Baumgartner said he supports President Trump’s executive order Keeping Men Out of Women’ Sports, but noted Washington’s laws.
Garcia was booed once again this year as she won the race, then accepted the medal on the podium.
The Tumwater girls’ track team wore shirts that said “Keep Women’s Sports Female”
Garcia, 17, told 4 News Now she’s more than the labels people choose to give her.
“I’m an innocent person. I’m a kind person. I’m gentle. And just to portray me as some monster—I can’t believe it, I guess,” she said.
Garcia said she doesn’t plan to compete in college and said the scrutiny she’s received has been worth it.
“The one thing that I want to leave off with people is just don’t be afraid of who you are. I mean, there’s obviously going to be some fear with it. That’s reasonable. But I would also say try not to let it overcome what you enjoy,” Garcia said.
COPYRIGHT 2025 BY KXLY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.