If there were any lingering questions about how Michele Bachmann views women's rights and roles, last night's Thanksgiving Family Leader Forum provided a clear indication of where she stands. As the event began, Bachmann proceeded to woman up and pour water for each of the other male candidates and moderators. As women continue to struggle as candidates and leaders against the stalwart masculinity of the U.S. political system, it is problematic that a presidential candidate felt it appropriate or necessary to pour water for her fellow dude candidates. Why?
1. Let's start with the most obvious - performing acts like this reifies traditional ideas of acceptable and expected femininity in troubling ways. Call me crazy, but I feel that it would kind of suck if this was the image put forth by the first female president (not that I think for a minute there's anything remotely viable about Bachmann).
2. One of the biggest reasons women are noted as having problems getting ahead in their careers is the persistent expectations that they provide extra care to those around them - to their peers and subordinates.
3. Though it's sort of like having an official national mom, I don't think the public at large would be inclined to take any female candidate seriously who self-subordinates in the presence of her male peers. Women in politics have reported many instances of misogyny on the campaign trail and in office that often impede how freely and effectively they can focus on the issues of their constituents.
4. As much as I hate Michele Bachmann, I hate the fact that she felt compelled to do this even more. Put down the water pitcher, Michele. Put it down.
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