In a recent development, the Trump administration has paused $175 million in federal funding to the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) due to its policies allowing transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports. This decision has garnered significant attention, particularly from former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines, who has publicly praised the administration’s action.Concerned Women for America+4New York Post+41010 WCSI – News Talk 1010 WCSI+4
Background on the Funding Pause
The administration’s decision stems from UPenn’s adherence to NCAA and Ivy League policies permitting transgender athletes to participate in sports aligning with their gender identity. This policy came under national scrutiny when Lia Thomas, a transgender swimmer from UPenn, won the women’s 500-yard freestyle at the NCAA Division I Championships in 2022, becoming the first openly transgender athlete to secure such a title. 1010 WCSI – News Talk 1010 WCSI+3Axios+3New York Post+31010 WCSI – News Talk 1010 WCSI+2Fox News+2New York Post+2
In response, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports” on February 5, 2025, aiming to restrict federal funds to institutions that allow transgender women to compete in women’s sports. The subsequent funding freeze affects approximately one-fifth of UPenn’s federal funding, primarily from the Departments of Defense and Health and Human Services. Concerned Women for America+4New York Post+41010 WCSI – News Talk 1010 WCSI+4
Riley Gaines’ Perspective
Riley Gaines, a 12-time NCAA All-American swimmer from the University of Kentucky, competed against Lia Thomas in the 2022 NCAA National Championships, where they notably tied for fifth place in the 200-yard freestyle final. Reflecting on this experience, Gaines has been an outspoken advocate for maintaining traditional definitions of women’s sports categories.
Regarding the funding pause, Gaines commented, “The Trump administration has yet again taken swift action to uphold common sense and preserve women’s opportunities by pausing $175 million in federal funding to the University of Pennsylvania.” She further criticized UPenn’s policies, stating that they allowed male athletes to compete in women’s swimming, thereby undermining the achievements and opportunities of female athletes.
Gaines emphasized that such administrative actions send a clear message to educational institutions about the importance of preserving the integrity of women’s sports and protecting the rights of female athletes. She expressed hope that this move would encourage other universities to reconsider policies that might disadvantage women in athletics.
UPenn’s Response
UPenn officials have acknowledged the reports but stated they have not received official notification regarding the funding pause. A university spokesperson noted, “Penn has always followed NCAA and Ivy League policies regarding student participation on athletic teams.” They emphasized that the university remains in full compliance with applicable regulations and policies governing athletic participation.
Broader Implications
This incident at UPenn is part of a larger national debate on the inclusion of transgender athletes in sports and the interpretation of Title IX protections. The Department of Education is currently investigating several institutions, including UPenn, for potential Title IX violations related to their athletic policies. These investigations could have significant implications for federal funding and the future of athletic programs across the country. Advocacy groups, such as Concerned Women for America, have praised the administration’s decision. Penny Nance, CEO and President of the organization, stated, “The Trump administration’s pause of $175 million in federal funding to UPenn sends a clear message: women’s sports must remain a space where female athletes can compete fairly and safely.”
Conclusion
The Trump administration’s decision to pause federal funding to UPenn has intensified discussions on transgender participation in sports and institutional compliance with federal policies. Figures like Riley Gaines view this action as a necessary step to uphold fairness in women’s athletics, while universities and advocacy groups continue to navigate the complex landscape of inclusion, compliance, and competitive equity.
