Abstract
Has the debate about women's roles in U.S. society allowed first ladies greater latitude in choosing the role(s) they will perform? To answer this question, two points on the spectrum of possible first lady roles–“first political wife” and “wife”–were identified. Public correspondence responding to Betty Ford's 60 Minutes interview was then studied. Ford's critics and supporters each articulated coherent ideologies of gender and presidential power, which were congruent with the theoretical constructs of first political wife and wife. In this instance, the role of first political wife mobilized more critics than supporters and influenced campaign strategies throughout the second half of the Ford administration.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
