Ts Madison criticizes Republicans' use of fear in anti-trans politics

Emmy-winning entertainer Ts Madison told CNN that visibility is activism and said Republican anti-trans messaging relies on fear; she described being targeted online and has obtained a temporary restraining order in response to alleged harassment.

Emmy Award-winning entertainer Ts Madison appeared on CNN ahead of Transgender Day of Visibility and said that simply being visible as a transgender person is an act of defiance. She tied her own experiences to a broader political climate in which she said transgender people are being targeted by anti-trans messaging. Madison described facing stalking, harassment, cyberbullying, and doxing and said she has taken legal action in response. Key facts: - Madison told CNN she views visibility as activism and criticized Republican political messaging that she said uses fear around transgender people. - She reported ongoing online and offline targeting and earlier this year sought and was granted a temporary restraining order after filing court documents describing alleged harassment. - Madison said the legal system can still offer protection and that she intends to push for stronger sanctions and new legislation addressing stalking, harassment, cyberbullying, and doxing with specific protections for transgender people. - She also highlighted a community-led housing initiative she runs called the "Starter House," aimed at supporting trans women facing instability. Summary: Madison connected her personal safety concerns and legal steps to a larger political debate about transgender rights and visibility. She plans to advocate for legal changes addressing harassment and doxing, and the timing or progress of any new legislation is undetermined at this time.