A recent nationwide survey on voter attitudes toward women in politics shows that Americans remain hesitant to elect a female president. Although there is broad support for women in politics, confidence in the country’s readiness for a female leader has been declining over the past decade. This trend was reinforced by Vice President Kamala Harris’s election defeat in 2024, following Hillary Clinton’s loss in 2016.
The survey, titled “She Leads: Progress and Persistent Barriers for Women in Politics,” found that one in five respondents would not vote for a woman for president, with younger voters showing greater reluctance. Among voters under 50, 25 % of women and 20 % of men said they would not support a qualified female candidate, compared with only 13 % of voters over 50.
Respondents indicated that they trust women more on social issues but tend to favor men on national security and international affairs. Voters were also divided on whether Kamala Harris’s candidacy has made it easier or harder for a woman to become president; Republicans and independents leaned toward the view that it has made it harder.
The poll, conducted by Benenson Strategy Group in September 2025, surveyed 801 registered voters with a margin of error of 3.5 points. Its findings align with earlier polling that showed a decline in optimism about the country’s readiness for a female president. A 2024 YouGov survey found that 54 % of Americans believed the country was ready for a female president, down from 63 % in 2015.
The results highlight the persistent barriers to women’s advancement in politics, despite growing support for women’s participation. The report was released by American University’s Women and Politics Institute, which aims to promote greater understanding of women’s roles in politics. As the debate over gender and electability continues, the survey underscores the need for ongoing discussion and awareness about the challenges faced by women in politics.
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