Equality Ohio Downgrades Amy Acton’s LGBTQ+ Score After Trans-Athlete Comments

Equality Ohio, the state LGBTQ+ advocacy and legal-aid organization, changed its rating of Ohio Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton from an “A” to “Pending” on its 2026 Candidate Scorecard. The downgrade follows remarks Acton made to the *Toledo Blade* on June 30, in which she said she would enforce Ohio’s law barring boys from competing in girls’ sports.

The Advocate

The comments came shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld state bans on transgender athletes, a decision that has intensified debate over Ohio’s own ban on transgender participation in school sports. While Acton’s campaign website later pledged “fair treatment” for all Ohioans, the statement omitted any reference to gender identity or expression.

The Advocate

The organization said the “Pending” status reflects “accountability is still possible” and that the rating could improve if Acton takes “meaningful steps forward.”

The Advocate

• “I do not support boys playing in girls sports. This is already settled law in Ohio, and as governor I will enforce and uphold the law,” — Dr. Amy Acton

The Advocate

• “This just proves that no candidate – I don’t care what party you’re in – gets a free pass to weaponize harmful rhetoric against trans youth,” — Ari Childrey

The Advocate