J. K. Rowling's anti-trans rhetoric: populist transantagonism

J. K. Rowling uses the large, public platform she has attained as the author of the popular Harry Potter series to make public statements attacking trans people, framing them as a threat to the safety of women and girls. She views her continued relevancy as a public figure as support for her positions and functions as a primary figure in spreading anti-trans discourse. Her rhetoric is populist in nature; she views herself as speaking up for "the people" (women and girls) to combat an "enemy" (trans activists and trans people) and defy a system (acceptance of trans people and recognition of their rights) that put "the people" at risk. Continued financial support and attention allows Rowling's antagonism of trans people to continue and inspire others to adopt anti-trans beliefs.