Fact vs. Fiction: The Claim of President Biden Supporting Transgender Surgery for Young Children

Claim:

It was claimed via social media that U.S. President Joe Biden said 8-10 year old children should be allowed to access transgender surgery.

Reasoning:

The claim misrepresents President Biden’s actual statements and policy positions. President Biden has consistently advocated for ending discrimination against transgender individuals and ensuring their rights are protected. He has not specifically endorsed gender-affirming surgery for children. In fact, his administration has focused on expanding access to gender-affirming care while also working to ban conversion therapy.

During a town hall in 2020, President Biden responded to a question about civil rights for transgender individuals by emphasizing the need for zero discrimination and did not mention gender-affirming surgery for children. His comments were about protecting transgender individuals, especially women of color, from violence and discrimination.

Furthermore, the Biden administration’s Health and Human Services agency published an “Evidence-Based Roadmap for Supporting and Affirming LGBTQI+ Youth,” which underscores principles of anti-discrimination and support for transgender individuals without specifically endorsing surgery for young children.

Fact or Fiction?

Fiction. The claim that President Biden supports transgender surgery for 8-10 year old children is false. His statements and the administration’s policies focus on preventing discrimination and do not endorse gender-affirming surgery for children. The administration’s approach aligns with expert recommendations on transgender health care, which suggest a cautious and reversible approach to treatment for minors.

In summary, the claim distorts President Biden’s actual position, which is centered on anti-discrimination and support for transgender rights, not on promoting surgery for young children. The administration’s policies and actions are in line with professional medical guidelines, which recommend a measured approach to gender-affirming care for minors.