In a recent blog post, New Hampshire State Representative Steve Vaillancourt (R) takes sexism in American politics to a whole new level.
While discussing the theory that a more attractive candidate will win an election race, he calls his female colleague Rep. Ann Kuster "ugly as sin". And because "looks matter in politics" she's going to lose the mid-term race to her opponent, Marilinda Garcia. Not because of her policies, but because he thinks she's "one of the mot attractive women on the political scene anywhere". He then goes on to say that "drag queens are more attractive than Annie Kuster".
Beyond the distasteful insults, what this boils down to is sexism. Rep. Vaillancourt is making the assumption that what matters in a political race between two women is not their policies, their intellect or their leadership capabilities. But rather, what matters most is her appearance.
It's hard to believe, but Rep. Vaillancourt is still a lawmaker in office and has yet to apologize! Vaillancourt is disrespectful and represents sexism in a nutshell. He doesn't deserve to represent us and must resign immediately.
Let's stand together in opposition of blatant sexism in American politics. Demand that Rep. Vaillancourt not only apologize but step down from office.
Dear Representative Vaillancourt,
Your blog post discussing the race between Rep. Ann Kuster and Marilinda Garcia is despicable. Not only is it a crude and disrespectful insult to call Rep. Kuster "ugly as sin" and compare her to a drag queen, but it's also sexist.
The fact that you crudely analyze the New Hampshire senate race based on these two women's appearances takes sexism in American politics to new lows. It does not matter how attractive a candidate is, but rather her intellect, policies and capabilities as a leader.
What's worse is that you have no shame and have yet to apologize, let alone resign as you should. Someone with such sexist tendencies should not be representing the American people.
[Your comments here]
I ask that you step down as state represenative immediately to restore justice to the American political system.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
