How was the GOP able to demonize Hillary Clinton to the extent they did?

[forgotmylogin]

22. Also, she's a woman.

I think many people have an ingrained misogyny that makes so-called bad men "scoundrels" and so-called bad women "ruthless bitches".

Being a "bad boy" is to some extent expected and, by many people, secretly admired. Being a "ruthless woman" makes one subject to scorn and does not carry the same balance of positive connotations.

A "dangerous woman" scares people more than a "dangerous man".

Also, saying bad things to and about a woman openly doesn't create a sense of risk avoidance. "What is she gonna do?" With a man, there's a measure of respect because you never know when they might turn around and sock you in the jaw for it.

(These are stereotypes and tropes I've inferred from observing other's behaviors and not reflective of my own beliefs.)