With just five days left in the high-stakes campaign, it seems that Mark Cuban has stirred the pot with a rather insulting comment about Republican women. The billionaire businessman and Dallas Mavericks owner might have thought he was making a witty observation, but he ended up offending millions. Cuban suggested that Donald Trump avoids “strong, intelligent women” because they are too intimidating. Talk about a mic drop moment—or perhaps a facepalm instead. His comments have not only raised eyebrows but sparked a fiery debate about the value and intellect of women who support Trump’s policies.
Cuban’s comments were directed specifically at Trump, but they managed to extend to the countless women who back the former president. By implying that only a select group of women can be deemed “strong” or “intelligent,” Cuban essentially called a whole army of conservative and independent women “stupid” and “unaccomplished.” This is quite an expansive statement when one considers the roster of remarkable women who have worked with Trump, including thinkers and doers from various backgrounds. Melania Trump, for instance, is multilingual, while others like Kellyanne Conway and Linda McMahon have made substantial names for themselves in politics and business.
Many pundits are pointing out Cuban’s comments as a touchstone in a broader pattern of derogatory remarks that have plagued conservative supporters, especially women. The divisive rhetoric from certain media figures and politicians seems to be a continuous saga, echoing past criticisms levied against Hillary Clinton supporters as “deplorables.” It all circles back to the question—how can one effectively dismiss and demean the intelligence of those who support a different viewpoint? That’s a conundrum for the left that has left many scratching their heads.
The backlash against Cuba is significant, especially as right-leaning commentators rush to defend the inclusivity and accomplishments of women within the Trump camp. From political strategists to grassroots organizers, the argument is clear—supporting Trump does not indicate a woman’s intelligence or capabilities. The notion that women with diverse talents, professions, and achievements who choose to back Trump somehow lack intelligence is an oversimplification that’s receiving a resounding “no thanks” from those on the right.
On the other side, it seems that the left is struggling with a messaging crisis of their own. Insulting half of the electorate while trying to rally support is a precarious strategy, to say the least. With advertising campaigns that aim to trivialize traditional family dynamics, some Democratic figures appear to be attempting to lay the groundwork for a narrative that supports their agenda—but these tactics seem to disillusion many voters rather than inspire them.
In the end, Cuban’s comments may have inadvertently united a coalition of conservative women who are proud supporters of Donald Trump. Many are gaining the confidence to speak out in response to derogatory remarks. As the election draws near, the overarching narrative is clear: many women are unapologetically voting for Trump and won’t be swayed by name-calling or stereotypes. After all, intelligence isn’t defined by political allegiance—it’s about standing up for what one believes in, no matter the circumstances.