Kari Winter on Trump's "Trophy wife" remark in West Point speech
In a recent article, HuffPost quoted Professor Kari Winter from the University at Buffalo’s Department of Global Gender and Sexuality Studies in response to former President Donald Trump's speech at West Point. During his address, Trump used the term “trophy wife” while talking about a real estate developer’s marriages — a moment many found out of place and offensive.
Professor Winter criticized the phrase, calling it a reflection of “a toxic set of misogynistic ideas.” She explained that it suggests wealthy men are entitled to beautiful women like they are possessions — “as if success for a woman means becoming a desirable object for a wealthy man.” She added, “Gross.”Winter also said Trump’s ramble reflected more on his own life than on the graduates, and she urged young people to seek genuine, respectful relationships rather than following such outdated ideals.
The article highlighted how Trump’s comments felt disconnected from the goals of a commencement speech and pointed to larger issues with his views on gender and relationships.
