Democratic Activist Katherine Adam Collaborates on Book with Noted Social Critic

It’s interesting that Obama has garnered so much support from women, considering that his opponent is a woman. However, gendered values—whether espoused by female or male candidates—are what count in this primary election.

Right now, Obama has just swept the Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. primaries. Did this surprise you? Why do you believe Obama was able to take all three? [Author’s note: Obama had an 11 state winning streak until this week, when Clinton won the primaries in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Texas.]

I think we were all a little surprised at Obama’s momentum. Clinton had such an advantage at the beginning of the season, I don’t think anyone expected Obama to win every race in February. However, he has done an incredible job at conveying feminized values to voters, which has made all the difference in these battles. Women make up almost 60 percent of Democratic primary voters, and Obama has connected with women voters in ways most people didn’t think possible with Clinton in the race.

Do you feel the scandals revolving around the Clinton presidency and Bill Clinton’s stumping for his wife have anything to do with how poorly Hillary faired in the Potomac?

Not really. Clinton’s losses stem from the fact that Democratic voters don’t feel she represents the feminized change they seek. Clinton’s campaign worked hard to portray her as “tough”, ready to be commander-in-chief in a dangerous world. Democratic voters haven’t responded favorably to this style. They seek a leader who espouses the values of community, empathy, and diplomacy.

The New Feminized Majority offers a three step plan for Democrats to secure victories in 2008 and beyond. Can you briefly describe this plan?

First, Democrats need to adopt a values-centered strategy based on feminized morality. Democrats have shied away from values politics for too long. Second, Democrats need to renounce the masculinized morality of the current political atmosphere and present an alternative. Americans want change, and Democrats should harness this energy. Third, Democrats need to motivate disengaged voters to become part of the movement. The feminized majority includes many Independents and non-voters. They are crucial to Democratic victory.