Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi stated Thursday that she is working at the national level to support access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth, even as debates over such care continue in California. During a visit to the San Francisco VA Medical Center, Pelosi addressed concerns about recent pauses in care for trans minors by major health providers. Though her response was hesitant, she reaffirmed her commitment, saying, “We are hoping that we can… have gender-affirming care for our trans kids.”

Her comments come amid growing legal and political battles over transgender healthcare for minors. Earlier this month, Democratic-led states, including California and New York, sued the Trump administration over policies they claim would criminalize providers offering transition-related care to those under 19. The lawsuit follows a January executive order by Donald Trump and directives from Attorney General Pam Bondi targeting such treatments.

In response to these pressures, major institutions such as Kaiser Permanente and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles have paused gender-affirming surgeries or closed clinics. Some hospitals in Washington, D.C., have followed suit. These decisions reflect the growing tension between state policies and federal enforcement threats under the current administration.

The issue remains politically charged. Recent polling shows a majority of Americans oppose gender-transition treatments for minors. Meanwhile, progressive leaders face pressure to reassess their support for certain transgender policies amid concerns they may be alienating moderate voters and risking broader public support.

Pelosi acknowledged Republican opposition in Congress but emphasized she is not alone in her stance, noting a visible show of support in her Capitol office — a trans flag outside her door. She reaffirmed that despite federal resistance, she and other lawmakers remain committed to defending access to care for transgender youth.

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