Ashley Moody served as Florida’s Attorney General from 2019 to early 2025. During her time in office, she frequently opposed LGBTQ initiatives, especially those related to transgender issues for youth.
In April 2024, Moody led a group that challenged a proposal from the Biden administration to change Title IX. This proposal aimed to redefine “sex” to include “gender identity” and “sexual orientation.” Moody argued that these changes would weaken protections for women and girls. She was particularly concerned that young girls might have to share private spaces, such as locker rooms, with biological males.
In May 2024, Moody filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The lawsuit aimed to stop the federal government from forcing Florida to pay for gender-transition medications and surgeries for minors. She claimed that these requirements violated state laws meant to protect children from irreversible medical procedures.
Moody also defended Florida’s laws that limited discussions about LGBTQ+ topics. She supported the state’s “Don’t Say Gay” law, which restricted discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms. Her office clarified that the law only applied to classroom instruction and did not include school libraries, addressing fears of overreach.
Additionally, Moody’s office defended Florida’s ban on transgender athletes competing in women’s sports at schools. She argued that allowing biological males to compete in women’s sports could harm fair competition and safety for female athletes.
In July 2024, Moody began an investigation into Starbucks’ inclusion and diversity policies. She claimed these practices involved illegal race-based quotas. Moody said such policies could lead to an abusive work environment and called for a thorough review to ensure compliance with civil rights laws.
Throughout her time in office, Moody’s actions showed her commitment to traditional views on gender and sex. Her legal challenges and public comments highlighted her focus on maintaining state control over these issues and protecting the rights and safety of women and children.