Step Up and Stop Body Shaming

Right-wing troll attacks former Trump staffer with sexist vitriol, body shaming

Right-wing activist Laura Loomer, known for her extreme views and Trump allegiance, launched a deplorable attack on former Trump press secretary, Stephanie Grisham, following her powerful DNC speech in support of Kamala Harris. In a series of tweets, Loomer posted an image of Grisham, tagging her and making ageist and misogynistic comments about her appearance, referring to menopausal weight gain.

"I’ve actually hit menopause, which sucks a ton & yes it’s a weight struggle [...] Def not rich either. I run a non-profit animal sanctuary & could barely afford the blazer I wore tonight. BUT…I told the truth & plan to keep doing so."

• Stephanie Grisham, via X @OMGrisham/status/1826121717514661916

Loomer, true to her trolls, doubled down on her sexist rhetoric, calling Grisham a "traitor" who "got rich off Donald Trump." Loomer's comments are a stark reminder of the toxic culture that right-wing extremists nurture, where women are reduced to their appearance and those who speak truth to power are vilified.

Grisham's courageous response, addressing menopause and its impact on body image, has garnered praise and support from many, sparking a much-needed conversation about the taboo topic. Commenters praised Grisham for her honesty, with one saying:

"Yeah, I hit menopause and weight is a battle. I love that you are talking about menopause! We got your back."

• Commenter on Grisham's post

Another called out Loomer's hypocrisy, highlighting the harm of attacking a woman for her looks:

"Laura…you know firsthand how much it hurts to be a woman attacked for her appearance, so why say this? Why try so hard to spackle over ugly, only to peel it off & reveal the truth?"

• Commenter responding to Loomer

Experts Weigh In on the Harms of Public Weight Comments

Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar, regional medical director at the Eating Recovery Center, and Chelsea Kronengold, communications lead at the National Eating Disorders Association, both emphasize the damaging impact of public comments on someone's weight. They stress how such comments reinforce the notion that a person's value is tied to their appearance and contribute to a harmful, superficial narrative that affects everyone, especially those struggling with body image issues and eating disorders.

Loomer's hateful rhetoric serves as a reminder of the toxic culture perpetuated by right-wing extremists and the importance of speaking out against it. Grisham's courage to address menopause and body image issues head-on is a testament to her character and a powerful statement against sexism and misogyny.

Watch: Ex-Trump Insider Stephanie Grisham Goes After Former Boss in DNC Speech

Contributing: Charles Trepany, Emily DeLetter, Sara M Moniuszko, USA TODAY