A billboard along Highway 16 in Newark, Ohio, sparked controversy after displaying an altered image of Vice President Kamala Harris in a suggestive pose, accompanied by mocking text. Erected by a local towing company, RK Towing, and hosted by Kennedy Outdoor Advertising, the billboard drew sharp criticism for its misogynistic undertones and vulgar implications. Kennedy Outdoor Advertising responded by removing the image, with a spokesperson explaining the offensive innuendo was initially “overlooked” by the company’s sole ad reviewer.

The incident is not the first time Harris has faced gendered attacks; similar narratives have shadowed her since her early days in California politics. Harris, a historic figure as the first woman and first woman of color to serve as vice president, has long been targeted by critics with claims that challenge her competence and integrity. Yet, as her political record reflects, Harris has never lost a general election, winning six consecutive races from San Francisco District Attorney to the U.S. Senate before ascending to the vice presidency.

Harris’s critics often draw from deeply rooted stereotypes. At a recent rally, a speaker referenced her alleged “pimp handlers,” while other conservative voices have invoked sexist tropes such as the “Jezebel spirit” to belittle her, echoing a longstanding trend of such rhetoric in political discourse. Former President Trump joined the fray, telling Fox News that Harris would be easily manipulated by global leaders, adding, “She’ll be like a play toy.”

Public reaction to the Ohio billboard was swift and scathing. Social media users condemned the advertisement as “filthy” and misogynistic. Some highlighted the irony of placing the Harris billboard alongside one featuring Trump, quoting him as saying, “In reality, they’re not after me, they’re after you. I’m just in the way.” Commenters decried the double standard, noting Trump’s own history of documented allegations of sexual misconduct.

Kennedy Outdoor Advertising has expressed regret over the ad’s approval, which they attribute to a lack of oversight. According to a company spokesperson, the sole vetter did not recognize the inappropriate nature of the image, and no further review took place. “If there would have been three to four people reviewing this artwork, it likely would not have been approved,” the spokesperson noted. Following public complaints, the billboard was removed two days after its installation.