Press Releases

Historic Election Milestones Expand Women’s Representation

November 4, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The 2026 midterm elections marked significant milestones for women’s political representation across the country. In response to the results, AAUW Chief Executive Officer Gloria L. Blackwell issued the following statement:

“When women vote, we change the conversation. And voters across the country made their voices heard in these midterms.

  • A record number of women from both parties are projected to serve as governors.
  • Four states elected women governors for the first time.
  • The first Black woman and the first Native American woman ever elected governor of a U.S. state.
  • The first Native American woman to the U.S. Senate, and three Black women are set to serve there together for the first time.

More women and girls can see themselves in the people who lead our country. Votes are still being counted in some races. Election officials will take the time needed to count every eligible vote and certify the results. With control of both the House and Senate set to change, the new Congress has an opportunity to respond to the attacks we’ve seen on higher education and civil rights. AAUW looks forward to working with members of both parties to make higher education more affordable and accessible, advance fair pay, and ensure our civil rights laws are fully enforced.”

For more than 145 years, AAUW has worked to expand opportunity and advance equity for women and girls. These milestones offer a powerful reminder of what is possible, but representation alone is not enough. We must continue dismantling the barriers that limit women’s access to education, economic security, leadership, and full participation in our democracy. Together, we can change the conversation and build on this progress. Let’s create a future where every woman and girl has the opportunity to lead, succeed, and thrive.

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AAUW is the nation’s leading organization for equity in higher education and women’s economic empowerment. Founded in 1881 by women who defied society’s conventions by earning college degrees, AAUW works to expand women’s access, opportunity, and equity through research, advocacy, education, and philanthropy. Since 1888, the organization has invested more than $150 million in women scholars, researchers, and community change-makers. Learn more at aauw.org.