The Political Fallout of “Childless Cat Ladies”: Echoes of the ’90s Culture Wars

Recently, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders reignited a political controversy reminiscent of past debates over women’s roles in society. At a campaign event in Flint, Michigan, she criticized Vice President Kamala Harris by saying, “Unfortunately, Kamala Harris doesn’t have anything keeping her humble.” This comment followed GOP vice presidential nominee JD Vance’s infamous “childless cat ladies” remark, both of which sparked outrage among women and even some conservatives.

Many found Sanders’ remarks particularly offensive, not just for targeting Harris’s lack of biological children but for ignoring her two stepchildren. Some within the Trump campaign expressed disappointment and offense, highlighting the potential alienation of women—a demographic that Republicans have struggled to attract. Polls consistently show Democrats with a significant advantage among women, especially younger and unmarried voters. The ongoing discourse around “childless cat ladies” and Sanders’ comments echoes a pivotal moment in the early ’90s when a similar Republican critique about women’s reproductive choices turned into a political flashpoint.

In 1992, during George H.W. Bush’s re-election campaign, Vice President Dan Quayle criticized the character Murphy Brown, played by Candice Bergen on the popular sitcom of the same name. Quayle denounced Murphy for choosing to raise a child as a single mother, framing her decision as a negative reflection of societal values. “Bearing babies irresponsibly is simply wrong,” he stated, intertwining this fictional narrative with a broader political message about “family values.”

Quayle’s comments ignited a fierce backlash, culminating in a national conversation about the evolving role of women in society. “Murphy Brown,” which premiered in 1988, depicted a strong, ambitious woman navigating her career and personal life, embodying the changing landscape where more women were deferring motherhood or choosing to remain childless. The show became a symbol of feminist progress, often mocking conservative ideals.

As Quayle’s remarks circulated, they quickly became a memorable moment in the 1992 presidential campaign. The writers of “Murphy Brown” addressed the controversy directly in a subsequent episode, showcasing nontraditional families and challenging Quayle’s perspective. This moment not only resonated with audiences but also highlighted a shifting cultural landscape regarding women’s choices.

Fast forward to today, and the conversation around women’s roles is still fraught with tension. JD Vance’s “childless cat ladies” comment reflects an enduring cultural war, where women’s reproductive choices remain a focal point of political debate. Such remarks tap into longstanding societal judgments about motherhood and family structures.

Diane English, the creator of “Murphy Brown,” noted that the show represented women asserting control over their lives, something that remains relevant as today’s women grapple with similar issues. The changing dynamics of family structures have led to more women raising children outside of marriage, and the political attacks on these choices have not subsided.

Critics of Quayle’s “Murphy Brown” remarks understood his statements as part of a larger narrative that often targeted marginalized communities, suggesting that his comments were a thinly veiled critique of single motherhood, particularly among women of color. The subsequent discussion about family values shifted focus away from critical issues like racial inequality and police violence.

As history suggests, such political attacks can backfire. Following Quayle’s comments, the GOP lost the presidency to Bill Clinton and Al Gore, a shift that underscored the electoral risks of alienating women. Today, with ongoing debates about abortion rights and reproductive choices, it remains to be seen whether Republican critiques of women like Harris will similarly impact voter sentiment.

At the 76th Primetime Emmy Awards, Bergen poignantly remarked on the progress made since the ’90s, stating that a Republican candidate would be unlikely to attack a woman for her parenting choices today. The resonance of her character’s legacy serves as a reminder of the battles fought over women’s rights and the need for political sensitivity around these issues.

As we approach the 2024 elections, those who attempt to undermine women’s reproductive choices may find themselves facing significant backlash. As “Murphy Brown” director Barnet Kellman aptly warned, “Watch out when you piss off women.” The stakes are high, and the lessons from the past are clearer than ever.