During a hearing in the House, Representative Keith Self (R-TX)—a member of congress—engaged in transphobia by referring to Representative Sarah McBride (D-DE) as “Mr. McBride,” who made history by being the first openly transgender woman in Congress. She swiftly responded with a comment of her own, “Thank you, Madam Chair.”
However, the confrontation did not end there. When challenged by Rep. William Keating (D-MA), Rep. Keith Self doubled down, once again calling Rep. Sarah McBride “Mr. McBride.”
Rep. Keith Self attempted to defend his transphobia by stating, “We have set the standard on the floor of the House,” in reference to President Donald Trump’s executive order, which aims to “defend” women from “gender ideology extremism” and restore “biological truth.”
Rep. William Keating allowed Rep. Keith Self to correct his unwarranted behavior and address Ms. McBride using her preferred pronouns. Rather than apologize, Rep. Keith Self threw a hissyfit by adjourning the hearing.
Rep. Keith Self’s commitment to transphobia did not end there. On X, he retweeted a video of his hateful comments, “It is the policy of the United States to recognize two sexes, male and female.” Again, echoing the sentiments of President Donald Trump’s executive order.
His comments pale in comparison to the response he received on X from users who share his views, from TERFs and transphobes alike:
“Sir McBride is free to live his life how he wants, but he is not free to force everyone else to live his fantasy.”
“Thank you ! No individual, regardless of their position or power, has the right to co-opt my sex or gender as a woman, nor to erode the hard-won history, rights, and privileges of women. For centuries, women have battled tirelessly against oppression and inequality, overcoming immense obstacles to secure their place in society. It is an insult to that struggle for any man—be it a male congressman or otherwise—to demand that everyone validate his personal fantasy or fetish under the guise of authority. Women’s identity and achievements are not a costume to be worn or a tool to be exploited for anyone’s agenda.”
“stop letting these dudes erase women”
“Stay strong! McBride referred to you as “Madam Chair”. He should be in trouble for that. If he wants to play dress-up, that’s up to him, but we don’t have to play along.”
McBride does not appear phased by Self’s sorry attempt at an attack on her gender. On X, she tweeted “No matter how I’m treated by some colleagues, nothing diminishes my awe and gratitude at getting to represent Delaware in Congress. It is truly the honor and privilege of a lifetime. I simply want to serve and to try to make this world a better place.” At least one person wants to show up and do her job, it seems.
