President Donald Trump has once again made headlines with his recent comments towards a female journalist. During a press briefing aboard Air Force One, Trump dismissed a journalist’s query by labeling it as “stupid.”
This has sparked further concern among experts in American studies and mental health, who emphasize the troubling nature of his ongoing conduct towards female reporters.
The exchange occurred when Trump was questioned about the ongoing protests in Iran. Activists report that the clampdown has resulted in over 2,000 casualties.
In response to Iran’s warning about U.S. military bases being considered legitimate targets, Trump replied quite assertively, “If they do that, we will hit them at levels that they’ve never been hit before.”
The journalist then asked if Trump believed Iran would take his threats seriously, to which he retorted, “I think so. Don’t you think so, CNN?” He further mocked, “What a stupid question.” This interaction stands as a part of a pattern where Trump directs derogatory remarks specifically to female journalists.
Trump’s history highlights numerous such incidents. For instance, in November, he called New York Times reporter Katie Rogers “ugly” and referred to Bloomberg’s Catherine Lucey as “piggy.” A more recent tirade involved calling CNN’s White House Correspondent Kaitlan Collins “stupid and nasty.” He also condemned ABC News’ Rachel Scott as “the most obnoxious reporter.”
Kari J. Winter, an American studies professor at the University at Buffalo, stresses that Trump’s venomous language unveils his contempt not only towards women but extends to a broader spectrum of prejudices. According to her, his derogatory comments showcase an inability to answer questions rationally. “His explosive demeanor suggests an unhinged mind, especially for someone with access to a nuclear arsenal,” Winter adds.
Licensed counselor Alexandra Cromer points out Trump’s frustration grows noticeable when challenged by women, attributing this reaction to deep-seated misogyny.
Cromer suggests that he perceives women as having lower self-worth, which underpins his disparaging remarks on women’s appearances. Trump’s comments, Cromer contends, are attempts to undermine women’s value by existing standards of attraction.
Experts agree that allowing Trump’s behavior to become normalized poses a larger threat. Though numerous domestic and international issues demand focus, Trump’s alarming conduct warrants attention and intervention. According to Winter, “violence breeds violence,” making Trump’s incitements particularly perilous. She urges against silence comparable to those who feared to confront historical tyrannies.
Many stress the significance of vocal opposition to prevent potential regression in women’s rights and societal respect. “If the president’s misconduct persists unchecked, the consequences could lead to broader societal violence against women,” Cromer cautions.
In closing, both Winter and Cromer urge for collective resistance to prevent normalization, advocating for a society that rejects Trump’s disparaging rhetoric and the dangerous precedents it sets.
