In response to widespread criticism over his decision to veto the Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed an “emergency” executive order banning mutilation surgery for children under 18 who identify as transgender.
“It’s been a week and I’m still convinced about it [veto] just like I did that day,” DeWine said at a news conference Friday. “I believe parents, not the government, should make these key decisions for their children.”
DeWine’s order banning surgery, however, does not apply more broadly to hormone therapies.
“This will ensure that surgery of this type on minors will never occur in Ohio,” DeWine adds, noting that the executive order “takes a controversial issue off the table.”
The move came as the Legislature wanted to override the governor’s veto, with a vote scheduled for Wednesday.
DeWine faced ponderous backlash after the veto from conservatives, including former President Trump, who said he was “done” with the Republican.
“No wonder he gets booed loudly in Ohio every time I introduce him at rallies, but I won’t be introducing him anymore. I’m done with the “stiff” thing – 45vol – said the president on the Truth Social program. “What was he thinking. The bill would end child mutilation and prevent men from playing women’s sports. Hopefully the Legislature will be overturned. Do it quickly!!!”
Conservatives were not cheerful with the executive order.
Lawyer Harmeet K. Dhillon called on Ohio lawmakers to protect children in the state.
“They must not be deceived by the governor. Mike DeWine a watered-down executive order… that does not go far enough to protect vulnerable children, overwhelmingly young girls, in the gender-affirming care industry,” she wrote in Hill. “Puberty blocking drugs and male hormone therapies permanently injure minors by affecting bone density, reproductive health and other basic body functions. They are as dangerous for children as surgeries.”
Impressively, he managed to move away from both Republicans and Democrats
Override the veto and remove DeWine from office https://t.co/1j7ORw1AfQ
— Riley Gaines (@Riley_Gaines_) January 5, 2024
DeWine is trying to find an inconsistent compromise position by banning the surgery but still allowing chemical castration of children. Not very good. His veto should be overridden and he should still be permanently banned from Republican politics. https://t.co/Fqt5IV8sui
— Matt Walsh (@MattWalshBlog) January 5, 2024
