Kataluna Enriquez Slams Congressional Bathroom Ban as Distraction from Bigger Issues

Kataluna Enriquez, the first openly transgender Miss Nevada USA, is speaking out against recent congressional moves to mandate bathroom use based on biological sex. In an interview, Enriquez expressed her frustration with the ongoing debate, calling it “tired” and less important than the many other pressing issues facing the country. She also labeled the bathroom ban as a cover for prejudice, emphasizing that when she uses the restroom, her sole focus is simply to do so safely, without any hidden agenda.

Enriquez praised Congresswoman-elect Sarah McBride, who will make history as Delaware's first openly transgender representative. Despite facing the challenges of the bathroom ban, McBride is dedicated to her legislative mission, Enriquez noted.

While Enriquez acknowledges the importance of safe spaces for women and children, she argues that the bathroom controversy has become a distraction from real issues. She highlighted what she sees as a double standard within the Republican Party, pointing to allegations of sexual misconduct against prominent figures like Donald Trump and Matt Gaetz, which, she claims, are being ignored by some conservatives.

In her discussion about safety, Enriquez pointed out that policies like the bathroom ban could put women who dress more masculine at risk. She also shared her concerns about the dangers of transgender women, like herself, being forced to use men's restrooms, especially in a political setting like Capitol Hill.

This debate flared up after House Speaker Mike Johnson’s statement advocating for women-only spaces in Congress, insisting that members should use the bathroom aligned with their sex at birth. South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace has been vocal in opposing transgender women’s access to women’s restrooms.

For her part, McBride, Delaware's first openly transgender congresswoman, has chosen not to engage in the bathroom debate, focusing instead on her priorities for the people of Delaware. Enriquez, meanwhile, expressed hope that Congress will shift its attention to more urgent issues, such as healthcare, education, and economic policy.