Riley Gaines urges AOC to change position on trans athletes in women's sports amid Rep's recent silence on it

Podcast host Riley Gaines joined 'Fox & Friends' to discuss why she considers far-left criticism of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act 'theatrical performance.'

As the national debate over trans inclusion in girls' and women's sports has reached a boiling point in recent weeks, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has been uncharacteristically quiet on the issue. Now, conservative influencer Riley Gaines has extended an invitation to the congresswomen to join the other side of the issue. 

"I absolutely believe that AOC, of course she has a platform, she's in a position of influence and power, and I believe she could influence the Democratic members to cross the line and return to sanity. I do believe there is an obligatory responsibility from every member of congress," Gaines told Fox News Digital in an exclusive interview. 

Gaines believes that if Ocasio-Cortez were to suddenly take a stand against trans inclusion in girls' and women's sports that it would be "performative" but that it would still benefit the congresswoman's political reputation. 

"While I don't agree with many other things outside of this issue that AOC stands for, I would certainly applaud her or any Democrat [for speaking out against trans inclusion]," Gaines said. 

"I don't believe AOC is out of contention for running for president in 2028, and if that's the case, [trans inclusion in women's sports] is certainly something she would want to distance herself from." 

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Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Riley Gaines (IMAGN)

Ocasio-Cortez last spoke out on the issue directly when the House of Representatives voted on the Protection of Women