Hollywood Potentates vs Donald Trump (excerpt from Planes, Steak & Water)
In Planes, Steak & Water: Defending Donald J. Trump, author and commentator Autry J. Pruitt takes aim at one of the most enduring criticisms levied against Donald Trump—claims of sexism. Pruitt argues that these charges, often amplified by the media and political opponents, reveal more about partisan strategy than genuine concern for women’s advancement. He points to the glaring contrast between the treatment of Trump and the silence that surrounded Bill and Hillary Clinton’s behavior during the 1990s, noting that the selective outrage is a tactic meant to brand Republicans broadly as hostile to women.
The excerpt highlights Hollywood as a central pillar of this hypocrisy. Despite its reputation as a progressive stronghold, Pruitt underscores that Hollywood remains one of the most notoriously sexist industries, where actresses are pressured to maintain youth, female directors face systemic barriers, and lower-level female employees are consistently undervalued. While Democratic leaders accept Hollywood’s money and endorsements, Pruitt notes, they rarely call out these deep-rooted inequalities.
By contrast, Pruitt contends that Donald Trump’s record tells a different story—one of elevating women to positions of real influence within industries long dominated by men. He draws attention to Lynne Patton, a black woman who rose to senior roles within the Trump Organization, and whose powerful testimony praised the Trump family’s loyalty and support even during her personal struggles. To Pruitt, this is evidence that Trump values competence and loyalty over superficial labels, offering women genuine opportunities to lead.
For Pruitt, the debate over Trump and sexism is not about sound bites or campaign rhetoric. It is about actions that matter. In his telling, Trump’s history demonstrates a willingness to break barriers for women where other institutions—political parties, media, and Hollywood alike—have too often failed.
