Nancy Pelosi, the outgoing House Speaker, expressed skepticism about seeing a woman become US president in her lifetime, citing a 'marble ceiling' of institutional resistance, but remains optimistic that a woman will serve as president within the next generation. She also discussed her retirement plans, her relationship with Joe Biden, and the broader challenges women face in American politics.
Virginia has experienced a significant shift towards female leadership, with Abigail Spanberger becoming the state's first woman governor and women making historic gains in statewide offices and the House of Delegates, reflecting a broader Democratic resurgence and changing societal attitudes towards women in politics.
Martha Layne Collins, Kentucky's first female governor and a key figure in bringing Toyota to Georgetown, died at 88. She was a trailblazer for women in politics, known for her leadership, economic development efforts, and education reforms, leaving a lasting impact on Kentucky.
Kamala Harris indicated in an interview with the BBC that she is considering running for president again, suggesting her political career is not over and expressing confidence that a woman will become president someday, possibly herself.
Sanae Takaichi, a heavy metal fan and protégé of Shinzo Abe, has become Japan's first female Prime Minister, marking a historic and unlikely rise in a traditionally male-dominated political landscape. She is known for her conservative views, hawkish policies, and a background that includes humble beginnings, a love for music, and a career that spans activism, media, and politics. Her leadership is expected to steer Japan further to the right amid ongoing debates about its military and economic alliances.
Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot and current U.S. Representative, has announced her candidacy for New Jersey governor, becoming the only woman in the race from either major party. Sherrill, who has served four terms in Congress, is known for her military background and legal expertise. Her campaign emphasizes her commitment to addressing state issues and restoring the full state and local tax deduction. Sherrill has already secured several endorsements and faces competition from other high-profile Democrats in the primary.
A record 13 women will serve as state governors in the U.S. next year, following Republican Kelly Ayotte's victory in New Hampshire. This surpasses the previous record of 12 set in 2022. The increase in female governors highlights progress in gender representation, though experts note more work is needed. Women governors often influence policies on caregiving and women's issues, and their presence can inspire future generations. Despite these gains, 18 states have never elected a female governor.
Jen Psaki highlights the significant role of women in politics as a hopeful outcome of the election, with a 'hidden surge' potentially boosting Kamala Harris's campaign, as indicated by a favorable Iowa poll. Meanwhile, Trump faces criticism for his comments on the media and early voting, and concerns about election misinformation and its impact on U.S. stability are raised.
Businesswoman Halla Tomasdottir has been elected as Iceland's next president, winning 34.3% of the vote in a field where the top three candidates were women. Tomasdottir, who is on leave from her role as CEO of The B Team, will take office on August 1, succeeding President Gudni Th Johannesson. Iceland's presidency is largely ceremonial but holds veto power over legislation. Tomasdottir campaigned on issues like social media's impact on youth mental health and the role of artificial intelligence.
Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as Mexico's first woman president in a historic landslide victory, securing between 58% and 60% of the vote. She will replace outgoing President Andrés Manuel López Obrador on October 1 and has promised to continue his popular welfare programs. The election marks a significant milestone for women in Mexico, although it was marred by violence against local candidates. Sheinbaum, a former mayor of Mexico City and energy scientist, aims to address the roots of violence and maintain strong relations with the United States.
Elena Poniatowska, a renowned 92-year-old Mexican writer and feminist, reflects on the historic likelihood of Mexico electing its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum or Xóchitl Gálvez. Poniatowska, who has long chronicled women's struggles and triumphs, views this milestone as a natural progression of hard-fought feminist efforts, including achieving gender parity in Congress and pushing for constitutional amendments. She finds personal gratification in this "women's triumph," which she believes is a testament to women's resilience and capability.
Mexico's historic elections on Sunday are set to likely elect the country's first female president, with Claudia Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez leading the race. The election, the largest in Mexico's history, is marked by cartel violence and the political legacy of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Over 20,000 positions are up for grabs, and the campaign has seen significant bloodshed, with criminal groups vying for power. The election also highlights issues of gender-based violence and gender disparities in a country with a strong "macho" culture.
Jean Carnahan, the first woman to represent Missouri in the U.S. Senate, has passed away at the age of 90. She was appointed to the seat after her husband, Mel Carnahan, was posthumously elected to it following his death in a plane crash in 2000. A moderate Democrat with no prior public office experience, she served for nearly two years before losing to a Republican candidate in 2002. Despite personal tragedy and political defeat, she remained steadfast in her commitment to public service and resilience.
Nikki Haley, a Republican presidential candidate, is making strides for women in politics by highlighting her gender and appealing to female voters, but she faces challenges due to trailing behind Donald Trump in the polls. Despite her efforts to attract women voters, some are hesitant to support her due to concerns about Trump's controversial remarks and behavior towards women. Haley's campaign is focusing on appealing to independent voters and highlighting her moderate stance on abortion, but she faces criticism for not championing women's rights enough to win over centrist voters in New Hampshire.
St. Paul City Council in Minnesota makes history with an all-woman, predominantly women of color, council, with seven members all under 40. The inauguration ceremony featured Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, who emphasized the significance of this diverse leadership becoming the norm. The new council members have already begun their work, receiving training and preparing for their first official meeting, aiming to bring a heightened level of expertise and a coalition of voices to address policy issues and empower the community.
