Colorado GOP Chairman Searches for an Issue to Unite Republicans and Raise Donations
Colorado GOP Chairman Dave Williams believes he has the support needed to take a stand against child gender reassignment medical procedures in the state. Despite the liberal nature and Democrat majorities in Colorado, Williams believes that this issue will unite Republicans across the state. Forming an issue committee, Williams tells The Colorado Sun that he plans to put a ballot measure to voters in 2024 that would ban these procedures.
While the committee's efforts are separate from the party, Williams tells supporters he is confident that the proposed measure will find support among Republicans. The committee is currently finalizing the language of the ballot, drawing from similar laws passed around the country. The measure aims to prevent children from receiving gender-affirming care, including hormone blockers that alter puberty.
According to the Human Rights Campaign, several states have already passed laws banning gender-affirming care for individuals up to age 18. However, some of these laws face legal challenges and injunctions, resulting in continued provision of such care in certain states. Moreover, other states, including Oregon, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, and New Hampshire, are also considering measures to regulate or prevent gender-affirming care for minors.
Advocates argue that gender-affirming care is vital for the well-being of transgender youth. The Association of American Medical Colleges defines gender-affirming care as interventions designed to support and affirm an individual's gender identity. Research shows that transgender youths face higher rates of emotional distress, depression, bullying, violence, and suicidal ideation. Therefore, the availability of gender-affirming care for these individuals is crucial.
The proposed ballot measure contradicts recent legislation signed by Colorado's Democratic Governor, Jared Polis. Earlier this year, Polis signed laws aimed at protecting transgender individuals seeking care in Colorado. The state is among the eight in the nation that have implemented laws safeguarding gender-affirming care.
Chairman Williams has previously expressed his concerns about Democrats' support for what he calls "groomers" teaching children about gender-affirming care.
To appear on the 2024 ballot, the committee must obtain approval for the ballot language from the state Title Board and gather over 125,000 signatures.