Left-wing Portland politician lashes out at 95-year-old woman after she suggested he cover his arm tattoos

A left-wing Portland politician has gone after a 95-year-old constituent, blasting her on social media, after she made a mild criticism of how he chose to present himself in public regarding his tattoos. He wrote back that she was "small-minded" on his personal Instagram account. 
 
The 95-year-old, whose name is Joan, wrote to City Councilman Jamie Dunphy that tattoos can be "very personal" and can be a turnoff "to many people." She then suggested that he wear a long-sleeve shirt. “Please consider wearing long sleeved shirts in public,” the note read, which appeared to be torn in half after Dunphy posted an image of the note on his personal Instagram account. 

Dunphy, who responded via his social media, posting a picture of the elderly woman's correspondence, said, "No. Mind your own business and keep your small-minded opinions about other peoples bodies to yourself - Jamie.” 



The 95-year-old, who struggles to hear because she has hearing aids, was not able to be reached for comment by the Oregonian by phone. After a failed phone call, the outlet sent the constituent a text, but she did not respond. In response to the report, Dunphy doubled down on the lashing out at the woman.  

“I am genuinely shocked by the audacity of any person in our community thinking it is appropriate to contact elected officials criticizing their bodies or appearance,” he said. “I refuse to tolerate body-policing in any capacity, regardless of whether the individual was old enough to know better.”

“Portlanders pride ourselves on our weirdness and our ability to openly be ourselves,” Dunphy added. “I am honored to be able to reflect that as a leader in our city government.”