A recent nationwide survey on voter attitudes toward women in politics has revealed that Americans remain hesitant to elect a female president. Despite 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 has been reinforced by the election defeat of Vice President Kamala Harris 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 stated they would not support a qualified female candidate, compared to 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. The survey also revealed that voters are divided on whether Kamala Harris’s candidacy has made it easier or harder for a woman to become president, with Republicans and independents leaning towards the latter view.
The poll, conducted by Benenson Strategy Group in September 2025, surveyed 801 registered voters with a margin of error of 3.5 points. The findings are in line with earlier polling, which 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 survey’s results highlight the persistent barriers to women’s advancement in politics, despite growing support for women’s participation. The report was released by the 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’s findings underscore the need for ongoing discussion and awareness about the challenges faced by women in politics.
