Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Presidential Candidate in Need of Makeover?

hail clinton!

While having some friends over for dinner the conversation topic, of course, got on the subject of the democratic presidential candidates. The debate over Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama ensued and opinions were thrown around. Nothing really stood out as something I hadn't heard before since these topics had all been covered by the various media sources. The thing that really struck me was when someone said that Hillary Clinton really needed a makeover.

Now don't get me wrong, I definitely think that some people in this world are in dire need of a makeover but the fact that this was said over a presidential candidate threw me.

Why, as Americans, are we so quick to judge a woman based on her appearance to the point that a makeover is listed as a reason to why someone wouldn't vote for her? Not once have I heard that about a male presidential candidate. Obama does not get criticized because his tie does not match his suit, why should Hillary Clinton get criticized by her appearance? If Hillary wins the candidacy and eventually the white house are we going to have her on OK magazine's worst style award or are we going to see her as past presidents, where style has little affect on their popularity?

A woman should get the same treatment as a man. A woman presidential candidate should not have to worry whether her style is going to cost her the presidency. People don't have to like Hillary Clinton but they should treat her the same as any other presidential candidate.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

Although I agree that a woman shouldnt have different standards from a man to run for president, lets face it there will be different standards. Everyone is against Hillary for running. Not because she isnt qualified or doesnt have experience believe me she has the most from anybody left. I didnt vote for Hillary not because of how she dressed but I think Obama has great ideas that can actually work and wont be pushed by lobbyist to change his opinion. People specifically men will find any little edge or imperfection to make a case against Hillary which I dont find fair. While Hillary has a choice of what clothes she can simply change Obama on the other hand can't simply change the color of his skin. And that reality is just a shame.

Drew said...

Was it all girls at your dinner? I think that, ironically enough, it would be a group of girls to point out that she'd need a make over. Why? Well when was the last time a group of guys discussed who was in need of a make over?

AllieKelley said...

I think I may have been present for this one... and I agree with you! What does the personal appearance of someone have to do with their ability to hold an office? Before TVs debates were broadcast over radios, which is why most of the country didn't know that FDR was in a wheelchair during his presidency. Unfortunately, we live in a society obsessed with looks and anyone getting into the public eye knows that already.