A mental health advisory board member in Oregon has sparked controversy by identifying as a turtle and using unconventional pronouns. JD Holt, who serves on Oregon’s Consumer Advisory Council, introduced themself in a recent meeting with “they/them/turtle” pronouns. This person helps shape mental health policies for the state, raising questions about the priorities of those guiding public resources.
The Oregon Health Authority praised Holt’s contributions, calling their perspective “valuable” despite the oddity of the situation. Critics argue this reflects a troubling trend where radical identity politics replace common sense. The panel Holt serves on advises state leaders on mental health funding and programs, but many taxpayers wonder if their money is being wasted on nonsense.
Chris Plante and other conservative commentators ripped the story as proof of liberal policies gone too far. Plante’s show highlighted the disconnect between everyday Americans and coastal elites pushing fringe ideologies. For working families struggling with real issues like addiction and homelessness, a turtle-identifying advisor feels like a slap in the face.
The term “turtlegender” comes from online communities promoting made-up identities detached from reality. While activists claim these labels empower people, most Americans see it as childish attention-seeking. Letting someone who identifies as an animal influence mental health policy undermines trust in the system.
Governor Tina Kotek, a Democrat, appointed the council overseeing Holt’s role. Conservatives argue this incident exposes how far-left politics infect supposedly neutral government agencies. Instead of fixing broken services, Oregon’s leaders focus on appeasing radical interest groups.
Mental health crises are rising nationwide, but stories like this distract from solutions. Parents worry their kids will mimic these behaviors, confusing personal fantasies with professional responsibility. Taxpayers deserve advisors grounded in reality, not fairy tales.
Chris Plante’s coverage emphasized the hypocrisy of “inclusive” policies that ignore common sense. When public funds support delusions, it signals that competence no longer matters. Oregonians struggling to find affordable care don’t need turtle pronouns—they need practical help.
This saga reflects a broader cultural battle. Conservatives see it as a warning: identity politics erode societal foundations. Until leaders prioritize real problems over political correctness, trust in institutions will keep crumbling.
