By Matt Underwood 
The Trump campaign strategised to appeal to male voters by increasing levels of misogyny and vilifying women. Signs of their misogynistic ethos included inappropriate “jokes”, devaluations of women and rape threats towards celebrities who expressed anti-Trump sentiments. This misogynistic narrative is part of a broader strategy to normalise sexist behaviour and appeal to infrequent male voters in the hope they will give Trump their votes.
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“I’m gonna do it whether the women like it or not.” When I heard those words come from Donald Trump’s lips, an unsettling realization washed over me. It was a textbook example of toxic masculinity, wrapped up in bravado and a dangerous sense of entitlement. This phrase encapsulates the very essence of the patriarchal mindset—one that assumes it knows what’s best for women, regardless of their consent or feelings. This closing argument isn’t just an odd stump speech moment; it’s a reflection of a toxic narrative that has permeated not only Trump’s rhetoric but also the broader landscape of patriarchal power dynamics.
The arrogance in proclaiming he’ll “protect” women while simultaneously disregarding their opinions strikes me as not only condescending but outright aggressive. It’s a warped interpretation of masculinity that attempts to frame domination as benevolence. The irony is palpable. When you claim to be a protector but are willing to impose your will on others, aren’t you really just masquerading as a tyrant? Through his comments, it seems he’s more interested in reinforcing his power than understanding women’s needs and desires. This is a disturbing theme in his campaign that resonates with those who idolize traditional, often harmful, constructions of masculinity.
It’s not just Trump. It’s the entire cultural backdrop that fosters such attitudes. One can see this toxic masculinity brewed at his rallies, where women are reduced to either sexual objects or passive recipients of male-determined “protection.” When his supporters cheer at the specter of powerful women being subdued, it’s a stark reminder of the lengths to which many will go to cling to outdated gender stereotypes. This environment creates an uncomfortable space for any woman daring to assert autonomy, reinforcing the deterrents against standing their ground.
Consider how deeply insidious this notion is: the idea that women must be protected regardless of their input. This paternalistic view dates back through history and has justified countless forms of control and oppression throughout various cultures. It elevates male voices and opinions while sidelining female ones, under the pretense of acting in their best interest. This kind of rhetoric perpetuates a cycle of inadequacy, wherein women’s desires are considered invalid and irrelevant. The concluding thought from Trump’s statements emerges clear and unambiguous: a woman’s agency is secondary to a man’s will.
The intersection of misogyny and a fervent “masculinity” becomes clear when we analyze the rhetoric surrounding the campaign. Trump’s approach sounds almost juvenile—a blatant expression of insecurity veiled as strength. The idea of “doing it whether women like it or not” suggests a power fantasy rooted in dominance over others, particularly women. The underlying message is that, in a so-called battle of the sexes, the testosterone-fueled assertion of authority holds sway over mutual respect and understanding. This kind of toxic bravado only breeds more division and hostility.
What is baffling to me is the mindset of those who still stand by him. How can anyone—especially women—rationalize support for such an individual who presents as a walking embodiment of the very oppression feminism has fought against? Knowing this internal struggle many have with self-respect and autonomy is disheartening. Still, it’s a reminder that toxic masculinity doesn’t just oppress women; it ultimately damages men, teaching them that emotions and vulnerability equate to weakness. The cycle perpetuates until the choices women make in their lives are dictated under the guise of “protection” rather than genuine empowerment.
Every time Trump utters phrases like this, it’s more than just rhetoric; it’s a call to arms for an outdated mindset that harms everyone involved. As we confront this dangerous ideology, it’s vital to raise our voices against it and ensure that we are not merely passive audience members in this ongoing drama. The urgency of the matter is underscored in the call to vote responsibly and derive a collective future built on respect and equality, not domination and submission. We must dismantle this toxic masculinity, which not only promotes aggression but also stifles healthy dialogue about gender and power.
When I reflect on the reality of living in a society where such statements gain traction, the need for change becomes more vital than ever. It’s a reminder of the active fight against these narratives—a fight that must involve every person willing to stand against the toxic winds of regressive ideologies. The path forward requires listening, understanding, and fostering an environment where everyone is protected and valued equally, not just in Donald Trump’s version of protection, which often comes with strings attached. We should stand united against the idea that anyone can dictate the path of another, especially when it comes to something as personal as identity and agency.