On the Verge of Misogyny
While GOP presidential candidate Newt Gingrich continues to vie for the nomination, some of his critics have resorted to sexist imagery to make an argument for his fading candidacy. An Op-Ed in the New York Daily News strikes a Really Damn Sexist tone when it calls Gingrich ‘a woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown.’
Author S.E. Cupp criticizes Gingrich’s reaction to Romney’s attacks by writing ‘hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.’ She goes on to characterize Gingrich’s arguments with Romney as catfights and to refer to Gingrich as ‘Miss’ and ‘her’ throughout the article.
Cupp uses a barrage of female stereotypes to disparage Gingrich, saying ‘the poor girl [Gingrich] is an emotional wreck.’ Cupp plots an intervention for the candidate, writing ‘…it’s therefore my duty to give Ms. Gingrich a serious reality check, and save her from herself. Because…I care.’ Not only does Cupp reinforce sexist stereotypes about women, she chastises Gingrich and resolves to help save him from what she sees as weak and embarrassing female behavior. Her recommendation takes the sexism one step further, suggesting Gingrich do what “all” women do when they are down: make a bubble bath, eat a tub of ice cream and watch a ‘Toddlers and Tiaras’ marathon.
Cupp is drawing an analogy between what she thinks is bad behavior and that of an emotional woman. In making an argument for Gingrich’s failing candidacy, Cupp insults women by characterizing his actions as somehow being distinctly female. Disliking a candidate is one thing, but using ignorant gender stereotypes to criticize and belittle Gingrich is sexist and shows a lack of respect for women.
Published by Kate McCarthy on 01/20/2012