In a recent CNN townhall event, news anchor Anderson Cooper mistakenly used the wrong pronouns for civil rights attorney Grace Thomas, who promptly corrected him. While Senator Bernie Sanders appeared to smile in support of Thomas as she corrected Cooper, some social media users interpreted his expression as confusion about the pronoun issue. This incident highlights the ongoing debate around gender identity, particularly within the political landscape. Republicans, particularly during Donald Trump’s administration, have maintained a strict stance on gender identity issues. The interaction between Cooper, Thomas, and Sanders underscores the importance of respecting individuals’ chosen pronouns and the need for greater awareness and sensitivity in discussing gender identity. As conversations around gender and identity continue to evolve, it is crucial for public figures and media personalities to be mindful of the language they use and the impact it can have on marginalized communities.