Thoughts from a middle-aged, female, former Bernie supporter...

[kurtcagle]

14. I am a white, middle aged male

though an ardent Democrat. I remember discussing with my wife when Franken was forced to resign that there was very real danger in the #meToo movement for it to be co-opted for political purposes, and I find that what's happening with Biden is the perfect reason why I was concerned.

We need to start distinguishing between a healthy degree of physical contact and the actions of a sexual predator. It is a matter of intent, and unfortunately intent is not easy to discern at the best of times, so it becomes easier, especially without context, to claim someone is acting in an inappropriate fashion - to the extent of destroying their reputation - for the sin of giving a hug.

This does not only damage male candidates either. Men do vote, and if men feel that women are using #meToo simply as a political tool, it will more likely reduce the likelihood of a man who is on the fence to choose a male candidate because they perceive the women as being manipulative. Given what's at stake, this needs to stop. Credibility needs to be earned, and so far what I've seen with Biden is that he is far more credible than his accusers, especially in light of Gillebrand (who I believe shot herself in the foot when she pushed Al Frankin out).