Governor Kim Reynolds and Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer both received nudges to run for office, similar to many other female candidates. Reynolds’ husband encouraged her to run for Clarke County Treasurer in 1994, while Cournoyer was inspired to run for her local school board in 2013 after questioning why her children’s elementary school’s front door was unlocked. These stories are not unique, according to Iowa State University political science professors Karen Kedrowski and Kelly Winfrey. They emphasize that women often need an external push to enter politics, unlike men who may be intrinsically ambitious.
Common Stories of Female Candidates
Reynolds and Cournoyer’s experiences reflect a common trend among female candidates who are often motivated to run for office by external encouragement. Reynolds’ husband’s straightforward ultimatum pushed her to make the changes she had been advocating for, while Cournoyer’s competitive spirit drove her to take action when faced with an issue she cared about deeply. These narratives highlight the importance of support and motivation in empowering women to pursue political leadership roles. Gender Disparities in Political Ambition
Kedrowski and Winfrey shed light on the gender disparities in political ambition, noting that women tend to view themselves as less qualified to run for office compared to men. This self-doubt often stems from societal expectations and perceptions of gender roles. The “Ready to Run” program at Iowa State University aims to address these barriers by providing resources and support to female candidates from both parties, encouraging them to overcome their doubts and pursue political office. Empowering Women in Politics
Despite the progress made in recent years, there is still a significant gap between male and female representation in politics. Encouraging more women to run for office and providing them with the necessary tools and support is crucial in achieving gender equality in political leadership. By amplifying the voices of female candidates and highlighting their unique perspectives and experiences, we can create a more inclusive and diverse political landscape where women are equally represented and empowered to make a difference.
Kedrowski and Winfrey shed light on the gender disparities in political ambition, noting that women tend to view themselves as less qualified to run for office compared to men. This self-doubt often stems from societal expectations and perceptions of gender roles. The “Ready to Run” program at Iowa State University aims to address these barriers by providing resources and support to female candidates from both parties, encouraging them to overcome their doubts and pursue political office.
