In the lead-up to the elections, both Republicans and Democrats are intensifying their focus on transgender issues, particularly regarding gender-affirming healthcare for prisoners. Pro-Trump forces have flooded the airwaves with anti-trans advertisements, targeting figures like Vice President Kamala Harris, who has faced criticism for her position on taxpayer-funded sex changes for inmates. Despite the backlash, Harris pointed out that the Trump administration also offered gender-affirming care in prisons. Meanwhile, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has defended transgender individuals against Republican ‘demonizing’ rhetoric. The GOP is using these issues to put Democrats on the defensive, with rising concerns over the effectiveness of their messaging among voters.