Maine Gov. Janet Mills is under federal scrutiny after refusing to enforce an executive order issued by President Donald Trump protecting women’s sports. The Trump administration swiftly responded with a Department of Education investigation into whether Maine’s policies violate Title IX.
The dispute came to a head at a White House meeting with governors, where President Donald Trump directly asked Mills if she would comply with the federal directive. Mills avoided a direct answer, stating that Maine follows both state and federal law. The president quickly warned that federal education funding would be revoked if the state refused to comply.
MUST WATCH: This is one of the most epic exchanges ever between Trump and the Governor of Maine pic.twitter.com/mqjTVBStZi
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) February 21, 2025
Mills held firm, telling President Donald Trump, “See you in court.” He responded that he welcomed the legal battle, predicting a quick win and suggesting Mills would not have a future in elected office.
Hours later, the Trump administration’s Office for Civil Rights confirmed an investigation into the Maine Department of Education. Federal officials cited concerns that schools, including Greely High School, have allowed male athletes to compete in girls’ sports.
Maine Governor Janet Mills defies President Trump on the issue of men in women's athletics.
Says to the President, " I'll see you in court."
Six hours later, the Office of Civil Rights announced they were investigating Maine for Title IX violations.
BOOM! pic.twitter.com/LtKtENmm1L— Brick Suit (@Brick_Suit) February 22, 2025
Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights, made it clear that any state receiving federal education funding must comply with Title IX. He warned that federal dollars would not be used to support policies that undermine protections for female athletes.
Trump pretty much ended Janet Mills career today.
The Governor of Maine decided men in women’s sports is the hill to die on.
Your future ain’t looking good Governor! pic.twitter.com/UMPNAuHnKP
— The Austin Conservative 🇺🇸🤘 (@atx_republican) February 22, 2025
At CPAC, President Donald Trump reiterated his criticism of Mills, telling the audience that her stance is harmful to women’s sports and reaffirming his administration’s commitment to holding states accountable.
