‘Calling her Rachel from accounts is unfair and sexist’: Readers call out gendered attacks on Reeves

Rachel Reeves says she’s “tired of people explaining to her how to be chancellor” Independent Readers shared their thoughts on why some of the criticism she encountered had sexist undertones.

Many readers highlighted that much of the scrutiny took place before Reeves announced his Budget, but the Chancellor insisted he would not “let them get the better of me by undermining my character”.

Others noted the aggressive and personal tone of the comment, noting that male chancellors rarely face the same level of derogatory treatment.

While criticizing their decision, one reader pointed out that referring to Reeves as “Rachel from Accounts” was both condescending and sexist.

Some agree that although the scrutiny was part of her senior government roles, the tone and language used by some critics suggested an attempt to undermine her self-confidence because she was a woman.

The consensus among commenters was that it was valid to call out this sexist treatment even as legitimate questions continue to be asked about her policy choices.

Here’s what you need to say:

Judge him after the budget

I love all the other guys here who fully prove Reeves’ point. By snowflaking the courage to say that this is a man’s statement. This goes on in every aspect of life and it is a disgrace. I see some of my colleagues having to endure this. Do us a favor, cut the stamps and shut up. Let it do its job, then decide whether it did the job or not.

Azizesky

Patronizing and sexist criticism

The fact that she has been through a difficult time and should be open to scrutiny does not negate her view that some of the language used is patronizing and sexist. Her performance has been erratic (though, given the international situation, this is not entirely her fault), but the offensiveness of the criticisms and the personal nature of some of them are far greater than those usually leveled at a male chancellor.

I think most women in senior positions would realize this; It’s a boringly familiar way that some men try to undermine women in the workplace.

I don’t blame him for getting angry. Everyone, from his own supporters to entire sections of the media and every think tank and lobby group known to man, is lining up to thwart him and pass judgment on rumors that he is planning.

It is time for budget purdah to be reinstated. Its aim was to protect the chancellor from undue pressure, to give them the space to prepare their budgets without interference, and to prevent budget negotiations from affecting financial markets. The government is constantly pestered by the media to provide more narratives and explanations of what it is doing; I think that’s why this Budget has been widely leaked and discussed publicly. It must resist this in the future. Budget details are fiscally sensitive and Reeves should not have been subject to so much interference.

Tanaquil2

Focus on decisions

This is a high-profile role in government and can be expected to be male or female. The important thing is: Are the decisions he makes right for the country?

cousinjack

‘Rachel from Accounts’

Being commonly referred to as “Rachel from accounts” can be a problem when she is criticized and told how she should do her job.

Strangely enough

Unfair and sexist language

derogatory remark [Rachel from accounts] It is also unfair and sexist.

Although the nature of being a politician puts a “goal” on you, in an ideal world all public figures deserve and should act with respect… unfortunately, this is not the case.

frame

I wouldn’t want to be chancellor right now

There is an interesting economics quiz that you all can take part in. Guard It’s about how you would perform in the Budget if you were Chancellor and whether you could keep voters, markets and Labor backbenchers happy, and that’s no easy task. I tried it and both the backbenchers and the markets would be happy, but the voters were not. I hate being chancellor right now and I hope he makes the right choices.

Amy

Criticism is part of the job

Hmm, name a chancellor who has never received criticism. Name someone who hasn’t been subjected to criticism that says it’s the worst thing since Napoleon and will destroy the country. Criticism, even unfair and exaggerated criticism, is part of the higher-up government, and framing it as a sexism issue is honestly not very impressive.

I mean, of course, it’s one thing if people use derogatory and sexist language, but being exposed to a lot of criticism and advice is just part of the job. Describing it as a “personal statement” seems like playing cards to score sympathy points or discredit his critics without addressing their actual criticisms. In other words, maybe there is something, but in the absence of evidence it just feels like an excuse.

Leesheep

Gender is not a problem

I’m not sure the shortcomings of politicians who clearly need more input from others will amount to a gender fight. On the contrary, Reeves is just another person who has unfortunately further discredited women in senior political roles. Maybe the Labor government should find more qualified people, because I’m sick of a poorly performing Labor government.

Not Really

abused description

“Mansplaining” is defined as a man arrogantly explaining something to a woman about something she already understands. That’s definitely not the case here. Reeves is about to deliver a big budget, so scrutiny is normal and necessary. Calling this a “personal statement” is a misuse of the term and reads more like an attempt to deflect criticism that he chooses not to address.

Musil

Some of the comments in this article have been edited for brevity and clarity.

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