Matt Gaetz defends himself when criticized for going to 'Barbie' movie event

Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida defended his decision to attend a "Barbie" movie event even though Hari Nef, a man who identifies as a woman, plays one of the Barbie characters in the film.

According to Politico, Gaetz and several other lawmakers were spotted at the event held at the British Embassy on Monday.

"Glad to see @mattgaetz enjoying the Barbie premiere. The movie where 'Doctor Barbie' is played by a Trans actor. Wonder why we can't win culture wars? Republicans love being included with the rich and famous too much," Mindy Lafevers tweeted.

"If you let the trans stop you from seeing Margo Robbie……the terrorists win….." Gaetz responded.

But others were also bothered by Gaetz's attendance at the event.

"This is why Republicans lose. These people make excuses, pretend to care about the issues we do, then mock us by doing things like this thinking their seats are safe. We’re out here boycotting while he’s going to premiers w/ men in woman face & mocking us," someone wrote in response to Gaetz's tweet. At the end of the tweet, the author added the hashtag "#RINO," an acronym that stands for "Republican in name only."

"I don't ever wanna hear your hot takes on culture wars ever again since you just proved you’re not serious about fighting them," someone else declared in response to Gaetz's tweet.

Gaetz's wife, Ginger, has recommended that people opt not to go see the "Barbie" movie.

"Thinking about watching the Barbie movie? I'd recommend sticking to getting outfit inspiration and skipping the theater," Ginger Gaetz wrote. "Here's why: The Barbie I grew up with was a representation of limitless possibilities, embracing diverse careers and feminine empowerment. The 2023 Barbie movie, unfortunately, neglects to address any notion of faith or family, and tries to normalize the idea that men and women can't collaborate positively (yuck)." One of her complaints was "Disappointingly low T from Ken."

Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!