NW Illinois News

Illinois State Senator Andrew Chesney has expressed his belief that biological males should not compete in female sports due to "undeniable physical advantages, including higher muscle mass, which gives them an inherent edge." Chesney made this statement in a Facebook post on March 20.

"Biological males have undeniable physical advantages, including higher muscle mass, which gives them an inherent edge over females in sports that rely on strength, endurance, and speed," said Chesney, according to Facebook. "It's an issue of safety and fairness. Allowing biological males to compete in women's sports creates an uneven playing field and limits opportunities for women to excel in their chosen sport."

According to Chesney, he is among 19 senators who have signed a letter addressed to the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) concerning its alignment with an executive order by President Donald J. Trump. This order aims to protect single-sex sports for female athletes. The letter requests written details from IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson on how the organization plans to comply with the federal directive. In a news release, Chesney cited Lia Thomas, a transgender college swimmer who won the NCAA Division I national championship in the women’s 500-yard freestyle in March 2022, as an example of why he believes women do not have equal opportunities when men compete in female categories.

Screenshot of State Senator Andrew Chesney's March 20 Facebook post | State Senator Andrew Chesney's Facebook page

The IHSA has adjusted its policy since 2011 based on guidance from medical experts and state law. According to Anderson's statement issued on February 5, the organization is committed to monitoring legislative changes and working with its Board of Directors to ensure compliance with state law. Currently, transgender students must obtain an eligibility ruling from the IHSA before participating in events that align with their gender identity. Schools are required to submit proof of consistent gender identity through medical records and personal statements.

President Trump's executive order calls for private sporting organizations to convene at the White House for discussions with female athletes who have experienced injuries or other issues due to competing against males. The order emphasizes the negative impact on women's opportunities and privacy, highlighting losses in medals, roster spots, playing time, and resources attributed to biological advantages held by males.

Chesney has represented Illinois' 45th Senate District since 2023 and previously served in the 89th House District starting December 2018. His past roles include serving as an elected member of the Freeport City Council and being a board member of the Regional Access Mobilization Project (RAMP), which supports people with disabilities. He also mentored through Big Brothers Big Sisters.