Elections 2000 • A Feminist Perspective

Is Ralph Nader a Viable Alternative for Feminist Voters?

 
Frustrated with the two main political parties, many feminists and other progressives are considering voting for Ralph Nader.  His platform is appealing to those alarmed by the increasing imbalance of wealth in the U.S.  Nader addresses issues other candidates are afraid to touch—like the need for a living wage, the "democracy gap," growing media consolidation, labor laws and the death penalty.

But, is Nader in touch with issues that specifically relate to women?  Is it possible for a candidate to be concerned with the widening void between rich and poor, but not gender inequality?

Ralph Nader . . .

. . . Is Not Interested in "Gonadal" Politics:
In 1996, when asked his position on abortion and lesbian/gay rights, Nader said he wasn't interested in "gonadal politics."  When a reporter reminded Nader of that statement during an interview this year, Nader revised the phrase to "sexual politics," and reiterated that these issues are not a main focus of his campaign.  (The Progressive, 4/00)

. . . Does Not Address Women's Rights Issues:
In Nader's 10 page statement announcing his candidacy (2/21/00), he did not mention any explicitly feminist issues, such as violence against women or reproductive freedom, nor did he once address lesbian/gay rights.  Comments on these issues on Nader’s web site are brief.

. . . Has Not Worked on Feminist Issues:
On reproductive rights and lesbian/gay issues, Nader stated: "[The Green Party has] people who are far more experienced in these areas than I am, and they will be speaking out on these issues as well.  I feel most comfortable speaking out specifically on issues I’ve worked on."  George W. Bush was criticized for a similar statement about looking elsewhere for knowledge of foreign policy issues. (The Progressive, 4/00)

. . . Is Ill-Informed About Abortion Rights:
In an April interview, Nader claimed that "I don't think that Roe v. Wade will ever beoverturned." (The Progressive, 4/00)  Subsequently, he stated that "Even in the unlikely event of the Supreme Court repealing Roe v. Wade, there isn’t a chance in hell that a state would...[pass] restrictions on the pro-life side," demonstrating his ignorance of the numerous federal and state restrictions passed every year curbing reproductive rights. (Rolling Stone 9/14/00)

. . . Has Reaped Millions Attacking Corporations:
Although Nader positions himself as the ally of everyday working class folks, when he recently disclosed his personal finances, it was revealed that he is worth $3.8 million. When questioned on his fortune, Nader told the media, "The question should almost be, 'Why is it so little?’ If it was in any way comparable to what these corporate executives are getting, we could've done a lot more." (The Business Journal, 7/3/00)

. . . Doesn't Care if He Helps Elect Bush:
When asked if he would mind providing the margin for Bush to defeat Gore, Nader replied, "I would not — not at all."  Nader went on to promote his belief that there are no differences between the Republican and Democratic parties. (Rolling Stone, 9/14/00)

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