Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff Faces Criticism Over Votes Against Title IX Protections
ATLANTA, Ga. — As the 2026 election cycle unfolds, Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is facing renewed scrutiny over his voting record on legislation designed to protect women’s sports and Title IX rights. Riley Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer who has publicly shared her experience competing against male athletes, has emerged as a vocal critic, urging Georgia voters to reconsider their support for Ossoff.
Gaines, who lost scholarship opportunities due to competing against a male athlete, underscored the stakes involved when female sports protections are weakened. She pointed to three key votes by Ossoff that she says demonstrate a pattern of opposition to safeguarding women’s rights in sports.
In March 2025, Ossoff voted against the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, a bill intended to reaffirm Title IX’s original purpose by ensuring that female sports remain reserved for biological females. This legislation sought to clarify federal protections under Title IX, a landmark 1972 federal civil rights law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs receiving federal funding. The bill aimed to address ongoing debates about participation in women’s sports.
Earlier, in March 2024, Ossoff voted to block an amendment that would have withheld federal funding from schools and states failing to enforce protections for female athletes. Critics argue that withholding funds is a necessary enforcement mechanism to ensure compliance with Title IX provisions. The U.S. Department of Education, which oversees Title IX enforcement, has emphasized the importance of maintaining equal opportunities for all students.
Gaines contends that Ossoff’s votes have tangible consequences for female athletes in Georgia, affecting scholarships, roster spots, and the integrity of women’s sports. She called on voters to consider these votes as a reflection of Ossoff’s priorities and commitment to women’s rights.
Ossoff’s office has not issued a detailed response to these specific criticisms, but the senator has previously stated support for inclusive policies and equal opportunity. Nonetheless, the votes in question have become a focal point in debates over gender and sports policy, which have gained national attention.
The issue is part of a broader national conversation about the interpretation of Title IX in the context of transgender athlete participation. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other federal agencies have weighed in on the complexities of balancing civil rights protections with fair competition.
As the campaign season progresses, the topic of women’s sports protections is expected to remain a contentious and influential issue in Georgia’s political landscape. Voters will likely weigh Ossoff’s record alongside other policy positions as they prepare to cast their ballots.
For more on Title IX and federal protections for women’s sports, see the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights guidance and related resources.
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