Former "Fox & Friends" co-host and accomplished collegiate athlete Elisabeth Hasselbeck recently rejoined the show to discuss the crucial need for safeguarding the well-being of female athletes in the evolving world of sports. This conversation followed former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines' powerful testimony before Congress, where she recounted her experience of sharing a locker room with transgender competitor Lia Thomas.

Hasselbeck questioned whether current societal systems are diminishing safety and opportunities for biological women in sports compared to the past. She pointed to recent races, swim meets, and ongoing lawsuits, such as the one in Connecticut, as evidence of a concerning trend. She emphasized the importance of evaluating what constitutes the safest environment for biological females, particularly as this issue extends into contact sports.

Addressing men specifically, Hasselbeck called for their support in protecting women, advocating for prioritizing safety while maintaining compassion. She acknowledged the struggles faced by individuals grappling with gender identity, but firmly stated her belief that having biological males and females compete together or share locker rooms does not enhance safety for women. Hasselbeck urged a comprehensive societal discussion on actions that can ensure safety for all.

Gaines's congressional testimony included a direct challenge to Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) after he accused Republicans of using harmful rhetoric when discussing transgender youth rights. Gaines argued that the focus should be on the impact of transgender inclusion on the opportunities available to biological women and girls in sports. She questioned what message is being sent to young girls when they are denied these opportunities. Gaines's appearance on Capitol Hill was part of a Senate hearing on LGBTQ+ civil rights, during which Durbin cautioned against inflammatory language and highlighted the vulnerability of transgender youth to homelessness, depression, and suicide.