Women and Politics

This post was submitted by Sophie Shulman, WCF Communications Fellow

Terri Sewell, WCF-Endorsed Candidate for Alabama’s 7th District, just announced new fundraising numbers that show her with a steady lead over her opponent Shelia Smoot. The numbers suggest that in May and June, Sewell raised at least $250,000 more than Smoot—confirming our opinion that Sewell is the strongest candidate to represent Alabama.

Indeed, Sewell’s story is one that reflects her deep roots in the district— growing up in Selma, Alabama, she is the daughter of a high school basketball coach and librarian. Although Sewell’s talents gave her the opportunity to attend some of the most prestigious universities in the world, she ultimately chose to return home to share her talents with the people of Alabama. As she says herself:

“I have exactly the skill set in Washington that this District needs, and the passion and desire to make sure that other have the same opportunities that I had.”

Sewell’s candidacy is so exciting because she also applies that same passion and desire to women’s rights. Her record as an Attorney shows that she is genuinely interested in the well-being and girls and women—she has worked to prevent domestic violence and has mentored young girls of color from disadvantaged backgrounds. Sewell also recognizes the importance of having women in leadership positions:

“I know that when women are at the table, issues of families and children really get decided and discussed… Just watching the health care debate, and the fact that the Stupak amendment got defeated is a very good example of how having effective women legislators in Congress makes a difference.”

And in Alabama, electing a woman to office is especially significant. Alabama is ranked 48th in the nation for the number of women in public office, and if elected, Sewell would be the first woman ever elected to Congress from the state. Shelia Smoot, Sewell’s opponent in the Democratic runoff, is also a talented African American woman who supports women’s rights, and its reassuring to know that, either way, Alabama voters are likely to make history this November. However, Sewell has proven throughout her campaign—and professional career—that she has the knowledge, skills, and courage to stand up for her constituents and her ideals.

Let’s wish Sewell the best of luck in her runoff on Tuesday, July 13, and celebrate the shattering of another glass ceiling in Alabama!

WCF-endorsed candidate Annise Parker won the majority of the vote in last night’s election, putting her through to a runoff election against Gene Locke on December 12.

As City Controller, Annise has been lauded for her efforts to ensure fiscal responsibility, create safer neighborhoods, and crack down on city fraud.

To boot, if elected, Annise would be Houston’s first openly gay mayor. She has long been a strong advocate for LGBT issues, and knows that this will only enhance her experience in office. She tells CNN:

“I have always stood up for the fact that I am gay and it’s part of the resume that I bring to the table. But it’s just a piece of the package.”

The best legislative decisions are made when people of diverse backgrounds work together, and Annise will bring a different and needed perspective to the table.

We applaud Annise for her achievements as City Controller and look forward to her serving as Mayor. Her runoff election is scheduled for December 12—support her right away!

Watch the full video about Annise on CNN: