Women’s representation in Congress remains stagnant for the first time since Trump’s 2016 election

Despite significant gains in recent elections, progress for women in Congress has stalled, with the potential for a decrease in the number of women serving in the next Congress compared to the current record levels. Democratic Rep. Mary Peltola and GOP Rep. Michelle Steel are among the women who have lost their races, potentially leading to a decline in female representation. Democratic women are on track to match their current House record, while Senate Republican women will also meet their current record. Republican women, however, are facing a slight decrease in the House due to some losses and retirements. Despite efforts by organizations like Emily’s List and Winning for Women, Republican women have not received the same institutional support as their Democratic counterparts. The stalled progress is also due to both parties’ pickups in the recent elections being largely won by men. It remains to be seen whether the 2026 midterms will see a surge in women running for Congress as seen in 2018 and 2020. Additional support and resources are needed to continue efforts to increase female representation in Congress and ensure progress towards gender parity.

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