#37. @realDonaldTrump Why don’t you think transgender students enjoy federal protection under Title IX? #100Days100Qs

Mr. President, why don't you think transgender students enjoy federal protection under Title IX?

During his campaign, President Donald Trump expressed support for LGBT rights. But he was elected with the support of conservatives, many of whom are committed to Obama-era protections for LGBT people — especially those who are transgender.

Last week, the Trump administration rolled back protections requiring schools to allow transgender students to use the bathroom corresponding to their gender identity. The Justice Department and the Education Department rejected protections outlined under the Obama administration, saying that they were made “without due regard for the primary role of the states and local school districts in establishing educational policy.”

Of course, there is a federal law the explicitly applies to sex discrimination in schools — Title IX. And for decades, it has prohibited gender-based discrimination at penalty of losing all federal funding. And that was the basis for the Obama administration's new regulations.

Gavin Grimm, the 17-year-old whose case is now before the Supreme Court, says he is the only boy not allowed to use the boy’s restroom at his school. Grimm even had his birth certificate changed to state his correct gender: male.

According to reports, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos reluctantly supported the new directive, but asked that the Department of Education to investigate claims of bullying and discrimination “against those who are most vulnerable in our schools.” DeVos is said to be a supporter of gay rights, but chose not to oppose this regulation.

So, President Trump, if you support LGBT rights, why are you making this change to school bathroom policy? Tweet your question to President Trump.

Over President Donald Trump's roughly first 100 days, we'll be asking him questions that our audience wants answers to. Join the project by tweeting this question to @realDonaldTrump with the hashtag #100Days100Qs. See more of our questions at pri.org/100questions.