In his April 6 episode of Last Week Tonight, comedian John Oliver tackled anti-trans narratives about transgender athletes, particularly debunking the claim of cisgender athletes losing 900 medals. Oliver explained that this figure, publicized by JK Rowling, is inaccurately calculated, and emphasized that many cis female athletes support their trans counterparts. He criticized the political focus on restricting trans athletes' participation, citing over $116 million spent on related advertisements by Republicans, and dismantled misconceptions about competitive advantages that trans women might have in sports.
"A lot of what you see [online] may not be quite what you think it is, both when it comes to trans athletes' impact on competition or safety."
"This issue is an obsession for Republicans, last year they spent over $116 million just on TV ads featuring trans athletes."
"The '900' number of events won by trans athletes included competitions... down to the level of a fun run in Topeka, Kansas..."
"Not only is that number incorrect and based on flawed calculations, but many cis female athletes have spoken out in support of trans athletes they had competed against."
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