Republican lawmaker Keith Self abruptly adjourned a congressional hearing on arms control and U.S. assistance to Europe after being criticized for referring to Representative Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender lawmaker in Congress, as a man. The incident occurred during a meeting of the Europe Subcommittee of the House Foreign Affairs panel, where Self introduced McBride as “Mr. McBride.” McBride, who has faced politicization and attacks due to her gender identity, briefly expressed her displeasure by calling Self “Madam Chair” before continuing with her remarks. Democratic Representative William Keating objected to Self’s introduction, calling him out for his lack of decency in addressing McBride.
Self defended his actions by stating that the U.S. recognizes only two sexes, male and female, as per President Trump’s executive order. He also referenced a “standard” set by House Republicans regarding how to refer to McBride. This standard has previously been characterized by not addressing McBride as a woman during official proceedings, as seen in other instances where she was referred to as “the member from Delaware” instead of “gentleman” or “gentlewoman.” Despite these challenges, McBride has largely focused on economic issues and given her GOP colleagues the benefit of the doubt in their interactions with her.
The incident at the congressional hearing was not an isolated one, as McBride has faced misgendering and attacks from some Republican lawmakers in the past. Representative Mary Miller of Illinois, for example, referred to McBride as the “gentleman from Delaware” during her maiden floor speech in February. McBride has generally chosen not to engage in confrontation over her gender identity, preferring to focus on her legislative work and service to Delaware. Despite the challenges she has faced, McBride remains committed to making the world a better place through her work in Congress.
Following the confrontation at the hearing, Miller doubled down on her attacks on McBride by posting on social media that McBride is a “biological man” and will always be one. This comment, along with the use of McBride’s deadname and a pre-transition photograph, was widely criticized as disrespectful. McBride did not publicly comment on the misgendering during the hearing but later addressed the issue indirectly on social media, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent Delaware in Congress and stating her commitment to serving and making a positive impact on the world. Despite the challenges she faces, McBride remains focused on her work as a lawmaker and advocating for her constituents.
