Explaining the Differential Share of Female Representatives in State Legislatures: A State Level Analysis of Women Shares in 50 States of the U.S.

• In Event: Political Representation: Race, Gender, and Age I

Abstract

This paper examines the variation in female representation across U.S. state legislatures. Despite women comprising a slight majority of the U.S. population, their representation in state legislatures remains disproportionately low. The study highlights disparities between states, noting that while some states have over 60% female legislators, others have as low as 11.9%.

The paper explores three key factors influencing these differences: sexism beliefs, ideological conservatism, and structural pathways. Gender stereotypes and societal norms deter women from running for office, while conservative ideology reinforces traditional gender roles, limiting female political participation. Structural barriers, including fundraising challenges and recruitment practices, further hinder women's entry into state legislatures. However, supportive policies, such as gender-focused recruitment efforts and institutional pathways, can improve representation.

The study employs a state-level analysis using statistical models to assess the impact of these factors on female legislative representation. It formulates hypotheses, measuring sexism through survey data, conservatism through voting patterns and policies, and structural pathways through institutional support mechanisms. The findings aim to explain why certain states exhibit higher female representation than others and suggest strategies to bridge the gap.

Potential limitations include measurement challenges and demographic variations within states. Overall, the study contributes to understanding gender disparities in political representation and the structural and cultural barriers that sustain them.

Author

• Luna Long, University of Delaware