CAWP Statement on the Presidential Election

Progress is not inevitable.

Once again, a woman has reached for the highest office in American politics, has come close to breaking that barrier, but ultimately was not elected.

Kamala Harris’ candidacy exemplified a good deal of what our research tells us about women’s advantages as candidates and officeholders. She was a formidable fundraiser. She connected with voters on issues important to her and to them. Her identity provided her with unique perspectives on overlooked issues.

Unfortunately, this contest also exemplified research on the obstacles women face when running for office, chief among them the unequal expectations placed upon women, and women of color in particular, who run for office. 

The day will come when America elects a woman president. In the meantime, we continue to celebrate the progress that has carried us to this moment. Women are serving as mayors, as state legislators, as governors, as representatives, as senators, as the highest leaders in legislative chambers both state and national, and, of course, as the vice president of the United States. They have held every political office in America. Except one.

But we must also acknowledge all else that remains undone. Women still hold fewer than a third of all political seats at every level of office. We have made great strides, yes, but there are many steps left on the path to parity.

The work continues.