January 9, 2026 – In a recent address, former collegiate swimmer and conservative advocate Riley Gaines emphasized the need for greater cohesion within the conservative movement, highlighting what she views as challenges from opposing political ideologies.

Gaines, known for her outspoken stance on issues like transgender participation in women’s sports, delivered her remarks during an appearance associated with her show on Fox News. She criticized what she described as “ruthless infighting” among conservatives, arguing that such divisions distract from addressing broader societal concerns.

“If conservatives want to live in a world again where our leaders think men can become women or political violence is justified, then by all means, keep the infighting up,” Gaines stated, according to a post from Fox News. She further framed the situation as a straightforward decision: “Our movement faces two simple choices: keep infighting and lose, or unite and win.” 0

The comments appear to reference ongoing debates in U.S. politics, including transgender rights and instances of political unrest. Gaines has previously shared personal experiences of facing protests and physical confrontations during speaking engagements, such as an incident at San Francisco State University in 2023, where she testified before Congress about being barricaded by demonstrators. 3

Gaines rose to prominence after competing against transgender swimmer Lia Thomas in the 2022 NCAA championships, an event that sparked national discussions on fairness in athletics. Since then, she has become a prominent voice in conservative circles, authoring a book, hosting a podcast, and contributing to organizations like Turning Point USA.

While Gaines’ call for unity resonates with many on the right, critics from progressive groups argue that her rhetoric on transgender issues can contribute to division and marginalization. Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign have advocated for inclusive policies in sports, emphasizing that transgender athletes should have equal opportunities without compromising safety or fairness.

This latest statement comes amid a polarized political landscape in the U.S., where both sides have accused each other of extremism. Recent surveys indicate growing concerns over political violence, with a Pew Research Center report noting that a majority of Americans from across the spectrum worry about its impact on democracy.

Gaines’ message underscores a broader push within conservative networks to consolidate efforts ahead of upcoming elections and policy battles. As the 2026 midterm cycle approaches, similar calls for solidarity are echoing from other figures in the movement.

For more details on Gaines’ appearance, viewers can tune into her show on Fox News, where she discusses these topics in depth.