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“The bill seems to think there are two,” Talarico said to Hefner.
He then expanded on his view, claiming that scientific understanding of biological sex is far more complex than commonly presented.
“The one thing I want us to all be aware of is that modern science obviously recognizes that there are many more than two biological sexes.”
The remark immediately raised eyebrows, but Talarico continued by offering a number that even he admitted caught him off guard.
“In fact, there are six, which honestly, Rep. Hefner, surprised me, too.”
At the time, Talarico attempted to frame the issue through a scientific lens. A graduate of Harvard University and a former public-school English teacher with a master’s degree in education policy, the Democrat told lawmakers that chromosomal combinations can produce variations beyond the typical XX and XY patterns.
According to Talarico’s explanation during the hearing, these variations include what he described as “six really common biological sexes.” In addition to the standard female and male chromosomal pairings, he referenced combinations such as single X chromosomes as well as XXY, XYY, and XXXY patterns.
“The point is that biologically speaking, scientifically speaking, sex is a spectrum, and oftentimes can be very ambiguous,” he said.
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Not everyone in the hearing room agreed with that interpretation. One of the witnesses who testified in favor of the legislation was Beth Stelzer, who strongly disputed the premise of Talarico’s claim.
Stelzer argued that the chromosomal differences he mentioned should not be classified as separate sexes. Instead, she characterized them as medical conditions tied to existing male or female biology.
“The other, quote, sexes mentioned are disorders of sexual development that are variants of XX or XY chromosomes. They are still disorders of male or female,” she said.
The exchange sparked debate online at the time, and the remarks quickly drew criticism from conservative commentators. Among them was author and political analyst Dinesh D’Souza, who mocked the claim on social media.
Writing on X, he quipped that the “only thing obvious here is this man’s stupidity.”
Talarico did not provide specific scientific citations during the hearing to back up his statement about six biological sexes. However, medical organizations do acknowledge that variations in sex chromosomes can occur during the formation of sperm or eggs.
For example, Children’s Hospital Colorado explains that atypical combinations of X and Y chromosomes may result in certain genetic conditions. These chromosomal variations can influence physical development and may lead to particular health challenges.
According to the hospital’s educational materials, individuals with an extra X chromosome can experience developmental differences.
“Males with an extra X chromosome usually have small testicles and show delayed or incomplete pubertal development due to low levels of testosterone,” the hospital states on its website.
The institution also notes how other chromosomal patterns can affect female development.
“Girls with Turner syndrome [one X chromosome] can have short stature, webbing of the neck, a broad chest and shorter fourth fingers.”
Now, years after the original hearing, the footage is once again gaining traction as Talarico moves forward in his Senate campaign. Republican critics are amplifying the video online, arguing that the remarks illustrate views they believe are out of touch with many voters.
The timing is particularly notable because the renewed scrutiny arrives just as Talarico attempts to capitalize on his primary victory and present himself to a broader statewide audience. Political observers say the revived clip could complicate that effort by reigniting a contentious cultural debate at the heart of American politics.
Whether the controversy fades or intensifies in the weeks ahead remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the resurfaced video has already ensured that Talarico’s comments from that 2021 hearing will continue to shadow the early days of his Senate campaign.
