MAGA-splaining - The New Term I Created
How dismissing expertise and science fuels misinformation—and why it’s time to prioritize the crisis that affects us all.
I’m here to argue that “MAGA-splaining” is the modern equivalent of “mansplaining.” If you’re unfamiliar with the term, mansplaining refers to when a man explains something—often to a woman—in a condescending or dismissive way, assuming they lack knowledge, even if they’re an expert. This isn’t about fueling political divides; it’s about shining a light on a troubling cultural trend that undermines expertise and reasoned discourse.
I hold both undergraduate and graduate degrees in atmospheric and climate science, as well as emergency management. While this doesn’t make me better than anyone, it does mean I’ve dedicated years to becoming a subject matter expert in my field. Yet, we now live in a world where ideology often outweighs expertise, dismissing those who’ve committed their lives to understanding complex issues.
Take Dr. Anthony Fauci as an example. He guided the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic, dedicating his life to public service. Instead of being celebrated for his efforts, he became a target for insults, mockery, and even threats. How did we reach a point where knowledge and dedication are met with hostility rather than respect? This isn’t just disappointing—it’s dangerous.
Now, the Department of Health and Human Services is poised to be led by someone who promotes pseudoscience—touting the benefits of raw meat and unpasteurized milk while peddling baseless conspiracy theories. When expertise is dismissed in favor of sensationalism and ideology, the consequences ripple far and wide. It’s critical we confront this shift and reflect on its broader implications for our society.
What’s more concerning is how misinformation has evolved. It used to be bots spreading lies on social media, but now it’s coming from politicians and right-wing celebrities. Every week, I’m told things like, “The climate is always changing,” “Your education makes you an elitist,” or “You’re paid to lie.” For context, as many of you know, I took a $60,000 pay cut to dedicate myself full-time to climate change work.
Imagine telling your doctor, “I don’t trust your diagnosis—Google says I have something else.” That’s the same energy I encounter when I explain my educational background to someone in the MAGA crowd, only to be met with, “I researched it online.” Ironically, this blind allegiance to misinformation feels like the real "Trump Derangement Syndrome." If Trump told his supporters an apple was an orange, many would believe it without question, hook, line, and sinker.
This isn’t just a battle over facts—it’s a battle over the value we place on expertise, science, and truth. And it’s one we can’t afford to lose.
The Palisades and Eaton Fires are poised to rank among the most destructive in California’s history. Let’s set the record straight: climate change didn’t start these fires, but it has supercharged their explosive growth. This distinction matters.
Yet, the MAGA crowd often seizes on the reported causes of wildfires—whether it’s arson, lightning, or downed power lines—as if they’ve uncovered a “gotcha” moment. This is what I mean by “MAGA-splaining .” What they fail to acknowledge is that the cause of a fire is just the spark. The reason these fires burn hotter, spread faster, and destroy more than ever before is directly tied to the effects of climate change—drier fuels, prolonged droughts, and more extreme weather conditions. They focus on the match and kindling, but not the gasoline being poured on the fire.
This narrative isn’t about blame; it’s about understanding. And ignoring the role of climate change only ensures these fires will continue to devastate communities. It's time we move past oversimplified arguments and focus on the real issue at hand.
In 2024, we faced $182.7 billion in losses from natural disasters, many of which were either caused by or intensified by climate change. Let that number sink in.
It brings me back to a point I made a couple of months ago: climate change should be the most important issue we’re addressing right now. Why? Because it impacts every other issue that matters to you.
Whether it’s the economy, public health, national security, or even infrastructure, the ripple effects of climate change are undeniable. Ignoring it isn’t just shortsighted—it’s costly, both in dollars and in human lives. It’s time to make this crisis a priority, not just for the planet but for everything we care about.
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Thank you Chris for your forthright and courageous writing to help educate people! Just like your excellent on-air reporting when you were in Des Moines!
Smart and clearly written. Thanks.