I have been investigating the presence of Hillary Clinton's supporters on the internet, and how perceptions of her gender are being enacted, and not enacted, in relation to other qualities in order to present her in a positive light.
On www.votehillary.org, a news item picks up on Clinton's recent endorsement by the American Nurses Association.
Here, the perceived centrality of women in the issue of healthcare and health care provision ( both literally, in the proliferation of women in nursing and as care-givers in the family)- the is played out alongside Hilary's pro position on universal care (a socialist, more caring approach?) and her power in being able to possibly turn this into governmental action.
As a women, "surrounding herself with nurses" is a powerful image, and one that could not work (at least, not so well) for a male candidate, as Clinton is seen to understand these nurses.
On www.hillaryclinton.com, a news item picks up on Women's History Month.
Here, Hillary's gender is enacted to display her solidarity and understanding of women's issues,
whilst her career- in traditionally male sphere's such as law, and now politics- is referenced to show how she has used her own personal achievements- and the development of that same womens history- to make a difference on these issues.
Whether Clinton has had to become more masculine in order to get ahead adds another dimension.
Additionally, in the menu of her opinions on individual issues, "champion of women" is listed as a section of its own.
On hillblazers.com- "Young Leaders for Hillary"- there is clearly a buzz about recent visits by Clinton's daughter, Chelsea, to universities around the US, during which Chelsea has spoken about her mother's plans to help families and students.
Firstly, its interesting to note that Chelsea is being used in part for this part of the campaign, perhaps as an indication that nothing is as powerful as a young voice to speak on youth issues, something Hillary could never authentically have.
In speaking for her mother, Chelsea is helping to enact Hillary's role as a mother and wife, as part of a family unit.
Interestingly, Chelsea appears to have achieved a little of the status of her mother, solidifying narratives of female achievement and highlighting one of mother-daughter closeness.
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There's a significant background to this in the perception that HC spectacularly failed to introduce healthcare provisions while First Lady. At the time, opponents of her proposed reforms used her non-elected status as a weapon to defeat the proposals. It's interesting that now perhaps HC is trying to appeal to a professionalised sense of women's nurturing and caring qualities.
Also, what are the dangers of Chelsea's prominent role? Who is this likely to appeal to; who alienate?
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