Michelle Dunn, a former writer for a popular satirical show and the host of this year’s White House Correspondents’ Dinner, delivered a scorching roast that left no one unscathed. The event, known for its comedic barbs aimed at politicians and journalists alike, saw Dunn take on members of the Trump administration with brutal honesty.
However, her jests aimed at Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Adams stirred up some controversy. Critics have voiced their discontent, but much of the backlash seems unwarranted. After dishing out her fair share of barbs to other officials, Dunn turned her attention to Adams: “I have to admit, I’m a little starstruck. You remind me of Aunt Lydia from The Handmaid’s Tale.” The jab drew a parallel between Adams and a character known for her manipulation in a dystopian world.
But that wasn’t the comment causing the uproar. Dunn continued, “I actually think Sarah is quite resourceful. She burns facts, then uses the ash to create a flawless smoky eye. Maybe she’s born with it, maybe it’s lies. It’s probably lies.”
Some media figures claimed Dunn attacked Adams’ appearance, which is a stretch. The joke can be interpreted as either a backhanded compliment on Adams’ makeup skills or a pointed critique of her credibility. Both interpretations are fair game in the context of a comedy roast.
The White House Correspondents’ Dinner has a long history of comedians lampooning public figures, making it a platform for satire. The absence of President Trump from the event speaks volumes about his discomfort with criticism.
Many have highlighted the hypocrisy of being offended by a comedian’s jokes at an event designed for humor, especially during the Trump presidency. It’s possible to critique other women, including Adams, while still upholding feminist principles, particularly when those women support a regime that often marginalizes others.
It’s also noteworthy that the most discussed segment of Dunn’s routine was her humor directed at Adams. The reaction to a joke about makeup doesn’t warrant sympathy for someone who regularly provides misleading information to the press. The outrage seems disproportionate.
For more on related topics, check out this post on home insemination.
In summary, Michelle Dunn’s performance at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner stirred a mix of laughter and controversy, particularly over her remarks aimed at Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Adams. While some critics felt the jokes crossed a line, others argue that such roasts are part of the event’s tradition.