1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

I saw that you were recently asked the question: “What is a woman?” I want to thank you for remaining composed, and I’m writing today to offer my support—and a clear, honest way to answer that question moving forward. Because we both know this wasn’t a real question. It was a political stunt. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't answer it. In fact, I believe it’s vital that leaders like you respond with strength, clarity, and compassion. So here’s the truth: A woman is an adult human being who identifies and lives as a woman. That includes cisgender women and transgender women. Both are real. Both are valid. This is not complicated. It’s rooted in medical consensus, lived reality, and basic human dignity. We should also be clear: Sex and gender are not the same. Sex is biological and not strictly binary (intersex people exist). Gender is a person’s internal sense of self and how they interact with the world. Trans women are women. They face gender-based discrimination because they are women. Denying their identity isn’t science—it’s cruelty. The people who keep asking this question aren’t looking for an answer. They’re looking for a soundbite to attack anyone who dares to recognize the humanity of transgender people. Please don’t let them twist the narrative. You have the opportunity to lead—to rise above the noise and stand firmly on the side of truth and dignity. That matters. Because people are watching. And some of them desperately need to know that their governor sees them as fully human. I hope you will continue to speak clearly and boldly, and show the rest of the country what principled leadership really looks like. With respect and hope.