What was the editorial purpose for the comment? Why is the sex of the participants of the alleged conversation relevant? The author takes great pains to make the other conversants seem borderline maniacal and also wants to make sure we know that they are all men. Why not also include their heights or hair colors? It's just as relevant in the context of the article.

I'm not arguing your point, using the concept of a "Dog Whistle" might be bad style of arguing. By virtue that its not possible to exonerate yourself from it.