JOURNAL ARTICLE

Press Releases, Politics, and Gendered Language Frames: An Analysis of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

  • Published In: Journal of Communication Inquiry, 2026, v. 50, n. 2. P. 241 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Osei Fordjour, Nana Kwame 3 of 3

Abstract

This study analyzes the gendered language frames used by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in her press releases during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Employing a qualitative frame analysis, the research finds that the governor predominantly used feminine language frames—characterized by inclusivity, empathy, and relational communication—while sparingly incorporating masculine frames such as war metaphors to convey strength and leadership. These mixed or "double-voice" frames align with expectations for political communication during health crises, reflecting both compassion and decisiveness. The findings suggest that feminine language frames can be effective and authentic tools for women in politics, particularly in crisis contexts, and highlight the influence of cultural and situational factors on political rhetoric.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of Communication Inquiry. 2026/04, Vol. 50, Issue 2, p241
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Politics and Government
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0196-8599
  • DOI:10.1177/01968599231210803
  • Accession Number:192308777
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Journal of Communication Inquiry is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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