Oh, the manual...?

You do know that the MAGAts are thoroughly concerned with masculinity, right? And conservatives' emphasis on masculinity apparently comes from a mix of different influences:

Conservative beliefs have long prioritized keeping traditional social structures and gender roles intact. The idea of masculinity, especially a 'tough' and assertive version (see Cheeto and the Alphas the MAGAts so much adore), has been a core part of conservative ideology for many years. This notion really seem to have taken off during the 1960s and 1970s, most probably as a response to social movements like civil rights and feminism, with masculinity viewed as a way to bring back a sense of ‘order’ (the little women, the queers and the colored knew their place back then). 

Lately, the Repugs have been weaving masculinity into their speeches more often. Politicians like Josh Hawley (who pings my gaydar), Madison Cawthorn (who is 100% a freak in bed, I'm sure), and J.D. Vance (who was an ugly duckling and thought that he was gay when he was young) have made it a central theme of their public outbursts on twitter, voicing worries about what they see as attacks on manhood from the left. This kind of messaging resonates with those who are anxious about shifting gender norms and societal changes.

A lot of 'conservatives' see the changing views on gender roles and the growing acceptance of different identities as threats to 'traditional' masculinity (hence the vitrol thrown at Transgender people). They often portray these shifts as assaults on men, claiming society is suggesting that their masculinity is a problem (well, toxic masculinity IS a problem, duh). This defensive stance tends to reinforce traditional masculine ideals. While some conservatives link challenges faced by men, like lower college enrollment or job participation, to attacks on masculinity, I think I agree more with some critics which argue that this perspective misses the bigger picture of complex economic and social issues. Focusing on masculinity can simplify these multifaceted problems for them. MAGAts at their core are simple, basic people. Also ignorant. 

And don't forget that conservative evangelical Christianity has significantly influenced views on masculinity within conservative groups. This religious perspective often highlights men as ‘providers’ and ‘protectors’, emphasizing their role as leaders in both family and society. Highlighting masculinity can also be seen as a strategic move to connect with specific voter groups, especially men who feel left out or marginalized. And that's a whole other can or worms....

So, seeing how conservatives attack Walz because he does not fit their image of a 'masculine' man, I'd say he's much sexier and interesting than any of those 'Alpha' conservatives who thrive on Twitter or on those conservative podcasts. I'd also have to say that I'd let a man like Walz fuck me into next week any time, any place, any which way. But I'd never let a guy like Vance or Hawley close to me. Or my drink. Ever. 

XOXO

P. S.