White House Comments on Investigation Involving SJSU Transgender Athlete and Teammate Conspiracy Allegations

A spokesperson for the White House has issued a statement regarding recent developments in the investigation related to former San Jose State volleyball player Blaire Fleming. This comes after reports emerged from Fox News Digital concerning allegations of misconduct against Fleming.

According to reports released on Tuesday, the Mountain West Conference retained the law firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher (WFG) to investigate claims that Fleming conspired with an opponent to harm her teammate, Brooke Slusser, during a game on October 3. This investigation commenced in the same month that WFG represented the conference in an attempt to keep Fleming eligible for competition amid a request to disqualify her from women’s events.

Tim Heaphy, the attorney leading the investigation from WFG, subsequently offered legal counsel to the university as it navigated a federal Title IX investigation concerning this situation, as detailed in public records obtained by Fox News Digital.

President Donald Trump’s administration initiated the Title IX inquiry into San Jose State University back in February. Given the political context, Trump has previously referenced this case during his campaigning for the upcoming election. His administration’s response to the newest developments has been significant.

White House spokesperson Liz Huston stated that President Trump is devoted to ending what he views as dangerous and unjust participation of men in women’s sports. She emphasized that the President will advocate for immediate action against educational institutions that may endanger the safety of female athletes.

Fox News Digital has sought comments from both San Jose State University and the Mountain West Conference regarding the White House’s remarks.

Heaphy, prior to joining WFG, served as the chief investigative counsel for the U.S. House of Representatives select committee investigating the events of January 6, 2021.

WFG is also notable for employing Doug Emhoff, the husband of former Vice President Kamala Harris, who is currently running for president in 2024. Emhoff became associated with the firm shortly after Trump assumed the presidency.

In April, WFG entered into an agreement to provide extensive legal services, amounting to $100 million, for the Trump administration. Their services include support for veterans and initiatives against antisemitism, as reported by several news outlets.

A federal judge, Kato Crews, nominated by President Biden, ruled on November 25 in favor of Fleming, affirming her eligibility to compete in the women’s tournament. This decision fostered a significant response within the athletic community and ignited debates regarding the implications of such rulings on women’s sports.

Just two days later, following a failed appeal by opposing plaintiffs, WFG publicly announced their legal victory to retain Fleming’s eligibility to play.

However, the website hosting the press release about that victory has since been removed. Fox News Digital inquired about the deletion but received no response from WFG.

Archives indicate that the original press release highlighted WFG’s crucial win for the Mountain West Conference in the suit that involved members of San Jose State University’s women’s volleyball team and rival teams.

Fox News Digital has also reached out to WFG for further comments regarding the investigation.

Among the voices speaking out about this case is Riley Gaines, a former swimmer from the University of Kentucky, who currently hosts a segment on OutKick. Gaines is engaged in a lawsuit against the NCAA over its previous policies on gender eligibility that permitted biological males to compete in women’s sports. She has taken to social media to address these latest developments.

The federal Title IX investigation into San Jose State University revolves around how the institution has managed Fleming’s case. The Office of Civil Rights from the U.S. Department of Education is overseeing this inquiry.

University President Cynthia Teniente-Matson previously assured the community of the university’s commitment to cooperating with the ongoing investigation. She expressed that the university is dedicated to ensuring that all students, including athletes, are treated equitably, free from discrimination, and provided the rights and protections outlined in federal and state legislation.

Teniente-Matson noted that San José State adheres to the policies established by the California State University system and other applicable laws. She acknowledged the complexities these regulations can introduce but assured that upholding responsibilities while supporting students remains a priority.

The President confirmed that they received notifications regarding the Department of Education’s investigation, which was prompted by President Trump’s executive order focused on athletic participation. The university will engage fully with the inquiry and adhere to all legal guidelines throughout the process.

Moreover, Teniente-Matson emphasized the institution’s ongoing efforts to sustain an environment of compassion and respect, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.

On February 6, Heaphy communicated with the legal counsel at San Jose State, Dustin May, following the commencement of the investigation. His email mentioned familiarity with facts relevant to the case based on previous work involving the Mountain West Conference.

May responded on February 18, declining Heaphy’s offer to assist with the situation. Heaphy remained open to providing help in future matters.

Fox News Digital has engaged in multiple attempts to contact the Mountain West, Willkie Farr & Gallagher, and San Jose State University, including reaching out to head volleyball coach Todd Kress to discuss their previous findings. Yet, responses from these entities have been minimal.

Initially, May’s office did respond, requesting a list of background questions regarding the inquiry. However, upon sharing inquiry requests for an interview, additional responses ceased.

It raises concerns about transparency as May’s office denied speculation regarding WFG’s representations in the inquiry. Such denials further complicate the narrative surrounding the investigation and raises questions for stakeholders.

As this situation evolves, ongoing engagement from relevant authorities remains crucial to ensure clarity and fairness in the realm of collegiate athletics.

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