Former President Donald Trump strongly criticized Republican Governor Mike DeWine of Ohio on Saturday for vetoing a bill that aimed to prohibit child sex changes.

DeWine's decision to veto House Bill 68, despite its overwhelming approval by the state legislature, drew sharp rebuke from Trump, who took to Truth Social to express his disapproval.

'I'm Finished With This Stiff': Trump Blasts Republican Governor He Once Endorsed For Vetoing Ban On Child Sex Changeshttps://t.co/YgrjiCK23L

— Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) December 31, 2023

Trump's response

In his post, Trump accused DeWine of succumbing to the "Radical Left," emphasizing the governor's unpopularity in Ohio, as evident from the loud boos he receives at Trump's rallies in the state.

Trump declared that he would no longer introduce DeWine and expressed his frustration by stating, "I'm finished with this 'stiff.'"

Trump questioned DeWine's reasoning behind the veto, highlighting the bill's objectives of preventing child sex changes and barring biological males from competing in women's sports.

Urges state to overturn

Trump urged the state legislature to swiftly overturn the veto, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the issues related to child mutilation and the fairness of women's sports.

The broader context of the bill included concerns about the participation of biological males who identify as transgender in women's sports, a topic that gained national attention following the involvement of University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas in the 2022 NCAA championships.

Thomas, a biological male who transitioned, stirred controversy by winning the 500-yard women's final and achieving high rankings in other events.

Other Republicans speak out

DeWine faced criticism not only from Trump but also from fellow Republicans, including Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, and Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose.

"Governor Mike DeWine has vetoed HB 68, a bill that would protect women's sports and prevent child mutilation," women's sports advocate Riley Gaines wrote. "Fortunately, Ohio has the votes to override the veto. [DeWine] is a spineless coward that needs to be removed from office."

Despite Trump's endorsement of DeWine during his reelection bid in 2022, the governor's decision to veto the bill led to a strong rebuke from the former president.

The contentious issue of child sex changes has prompted legal action from detransitioners like Chloe Cole, who filed lawsuits against medical professionals involved in performing "gender-affirming" procedures.

The bill's veto by DeWine has ignited a broader debate within the Republican party, exposing divisions on issues related to transgender rights and sports participation.