Misogyny, sexism a major factor in Wynne’s low ratings, Hepburn, Jan. 18
History has proven that female politicians who deliver popular policy get re-elected. Misogyny and sexism were not factors in the re-elections of Margaret Thatcher, Angela Merkel, Golda Meir or Indira Gandhi. Nor was it an issue in the re-election of B.C. Premier Christy Clark.
In a contest with Donald Trump, any woman not named Hillary Clinton would have been elected as president of the U.S. The main reason why Clinton was not elected is because of her notorious reputation. She is unable to accept this reality and deflects the blame onto misogyny and sexism.
Ontarians have proven that sexual status has no bearing on the election of the premier. If misogyny and sexism existed to such an extent that it significantly impacted women from being re-elected, then those same female candidates would never have been elected in the first place, and that includes Kathleen Wynne.
Wynne’s unpopularity is directly tied to unacceptable Liberal policies and the incompetent management of government resources. For example, as hydro costs escalated, Wynne’s popularity plummeted. But the recent rise in her standing is directly related to policy decisions that resonate favourably with the public. If misogyny and sexism were actually factors, then there would not have been any rise in her popularity.
Suggesting misogyny and sexism are the main reasons why Wynne is so unpopular denigrates Ontarians.
R.C. Armstrong, Port Perry