#JoeandtheHoe: Exploring Gender and Racial Stereotypes Used to Discredit Kamala Harris in the 2020 Presidential Election

Abstract

Social media has increasingly become the source of political information and discussion during campaigns, as well as a platform where stereotypical frames and disinformation are spread about candidates. This study explores the gender and racial stereotypes used to negatively frame Kamala Harris on Twitter. Results show that gender frames previously used against other female candidates were present (inauthentic, ambitious), as well as racial frames leveled against Barack Obama (violent, dangerous, not Black enough). Additionally, Harris was subjected to oppressive stereotypes and controlling images related to her intersectionality as a Black woman (tough, angry, sexually promiscuous, and loser).

KEYTERMS:

• female candidates
• gender stereotypes
• intersectionality
• Kamala Harris
• racial stereotypes
• social media