In this thought-provoking discussion, Caroline Heldman, a political scientist and author, Anna Sampaio, a professor of ethnic studies, and Chaya Crowder, an expert in political science tackle the barriers preventing women, particularly women of color, from ascending to the presidency. They analyze the complex interplay of racism and sexism, highlight Kamala Harris's campaign challenges, and emphasize the crucial role of female voters. The conversation advocates for greater support of women candidates, exploring how shifting perceptions could pave the way for a future female president.
Female presidential candidates face significant societal barriers rooted in gender perceptions that often diminish their credibility and qualifications.
Voting behavior among women voters reveals complex intersections of race and partisanship, affecting support for female candidates like Kamala Harris.
Despite electoral setbacks, the candidacy of women, particularly women of color, lays vital groundwork for future representation and political engagement.
Deep dives
Challenges Faced by Female Presidential Candidates
Female presidential candidates encounter significant barriers that stem from societal perceptions of gender and leadership. Studies show that the U.S. presidency is often viewed as a hyper-masculine role, creating an uphill battle for women candidates to be taken seriously. For instance, while 130 women have run for the office, only a handful made serious bids, and media attention often focused on their appearance rather than their qualifications. The intersectionality of gender with race further complicates the narrative, leading to a unique set of challenges women of color face, which can deter their candidacy for high office.
Voting Patterns and Gender Alliances
Voting patterns reveal a complex relationship between gender and political allegiance, particularly among women voters. An AP survey found that many women were not motivated to vote for Kamala Harris simply because she is a woman, evidenced by the majority of white women voting for Donald Trump. This shift suggests that racial and partisanship issues can outweigh shared gender identity. The tenuous nature of female solidarity highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the social and political dynamics that influence these voting behaviors.
Impact of Intersectionality on Voting Behavior
The role of intersectionality significantly affects voting behavior, especially among women of various racial backgrounds. Exit polls indicated a clear divide, with 91 percent of Black women supporting Harris, whereas a majority of white women voted for Trump. This divide suggests that racial resentment and aligned identities hold more sway than gender alone when it comes to voting decisions. Furthermore, the patriarchal bargain often leads to a situation where white women may prioritize their alignment with white male voters over supporting female candidates, reflecting deeper societal issues.
Campaign Strategies and Gendered Expectations
Candidates often adopt strategies that downplay their race or gender to appeal to a broader voter base, a practice common among women of color in politics. Kamala Harris, for instance, attempted to emphasize her capabilities over her identity during the campaign. This approach mirrors tactics from previous candidates and reflects the entrenched biases and expectations surrounding female leadership. The need to navigate these difficult waters demonstrates the pressures candidates face in balancing authenticity with electability in a racially and gender-divided electorate.
Long-Term Implications for Women in Politics
Despite setbacks in recent elections, women candidates, especially women of color, create pathways for future political engagement and representation. Historical losses can catalyze future opportunities by raising awareness and fostering networks. Political scientists emphasize that the presence of women in candidacy—regardless of outcome—expands the conversation about women's roles and capabilities in politics. As society normalizes the idea of women in high office, each candidacy lays groundwork for future female leaders who might eventually overcome the systemic barriers that persist.
Many factors contributed to Vice President Kamala Harris’ loss in the 2024 election. But for those hoping that Americans would elect the country’s first woman president — especially when picking between a Black and Asian woman and an adjudicated rapist — her defeat stung deeply. At the same time, 45% of female voters – and a majority of white women voters – cast their ballots for president-elect Donald Trump. We’ll talk about the roles racism and sexism could have played in this election, and whether the U.S. could have a female president in our lifetimes.
Guests:
Caroline Heldman, political scientist and professor in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies, political scientist and professor in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies
Anna Sampaio, Professor of Ethnic Studies and Political Science, Santa Clara University
Chaya Crowder, Assistant Professor of Political Science and International Relations, Loyola Marymount University - author of the forthcoming book, “Intersectional Solidarity: Black Women and the Politics of Group Consciousness”
