Washington state votes on transgender sports ban
The gist
Washington's Initiative 638 led with 60% support to 39% opposition in early results.
It could make Washington the 30th state with such a ban.
How it unfolded
- Jul 27, 2026The proposal was introduced by Let's Go Washington, a political action committee founded by conservative hedge fund manager Brian Heywood.
- Oct 30, 2026Initiative 638, officially the "Defending Equity in Interscholastic Sports Act," would bar transgender girls from K-12 female sports by requiring sex verification during routine physicals.
- Nov 3, 2026With nearly 1,117,424 votes counted, the initiative had 60% support and 39% opposition in early results; the Secretary of State's office put yes at 57%.