Warren’s Debate Tears a Disqualifier Not Long Ago [OPINION]

Senator Elizabeth Warren shed a few alligator tears at last night's sixth Democrat presidential debate on PBS, but you've got to struggle to find ink on it anywhere. It's not surprising she is weeping, what with her candidacy collapsing faster than the Democrats' chances of removing President Trump from office.

Elizabeth Warren has cried a few times since November at various campaign appearances. Perhaps she thinks it helps with voters. Warren is a liar and is about as insincere as any politician you'll ever meet anywhere. The thought that Warren's bawling might be a ruse can't be ruled out. Or perhaps it is the stress of the campaign trail and watching her hopes of winning evaporate before her eyes.

What is interesting is how times have changed. In 1987, when former Colorado Congresswoman Pat Schroeder cried while announcing she would not be a candidate for the Democrat presidential nomination in 1988, it was crushing for many women who felt it was a sign of weakness. Her political career was over.

It's true. Male and female candidates were measured by different sticks back then and to some degree still are. Many men who shed tears in public were seen as sensitive and caring, but for women with political aspirations, it was a death sentence.

We've come a long way since 1987, and while women have shown their mettle in the political arena, those who weep in public still do so at their political peril. If a woman does not present a picture of strength and toughness at all times, she can still be labeled as weak. Stereotypes are a tough thing to overcome.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.