The Power of “Childless Cat Ladies”
J.D. Vance really didn’t understand what he was unleashing
Who could have anticipated that cats would dominate this election?
When JD Vance’s “childless cat ladies” remarks came to light, I realized I was part of that demographic, even though I identify as a gay, cis-male: I don’t have human children (I prefer the term “child-free”), but I am a cat-fanatic (my own and on the internet).
Then came the horrific conspiracy theories about cats being eaten in Springfield, Ohio.
All of this led me to ponder: Will cats carry this election? It’s hardly a surprise that cats might play a central role given our society’s collective fascination with them.
But that cultural history also explains why JD Vance and Trump have ignited a backlash that may cost them the election.
Cats Historically Dominate the Internet
The antics and cuteness of cats have long dominated our online lives.
Back in 2007, cats conquered the internet with the classic “I can has cheezburger?” and countless lolcat memes with their choppy, agrammatical lolspeak.
