Women in Politics : Most influential women in U.S. politics in 2024

1. Kamala Harris

• Current Role: Vice President of the United States
• Background: Kamala Harris made history as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President of the United States. Before serving as Vice President, she was a U.S. Senator from California and the Attorney General of California.
• Influence: Harris has been a prominent advocate for criminal justice reform, health care, and climate change. Her role as Vice President places her at the forefront of U.S. policy-making and international diplomacy.

2. Nancy Pelosi

• Current Role: Speaker of the House of Representatives
• Background: Nancy Pelosi has served as the Speaker of the House since 2019, and previously from 2007 to 2011. She is the first woman to have held this position.
• Influence: Pelosi has been a key figure in passing significant legislation, including the Affordable Care Act and various stimulus packages. Her leadership has been crucial in navigating the legislative process and maintaining party unity among Democrats.

3. Elizabeth Warren

• Current Role: U.S. Senator from Massachusetts
• Background: Elizabeth Warren is known for her work in consumer protection, economic equality, and health care reform. She was a law professor and an advocate for the creation of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
• Influence: Warren has been a vocal critic of Wall Street and big banks, pushing for regulations to protect consumers. Her progressive policies and detailed policy proposals have made her a leading voice in the Democratic Party.

4. Kristi Noem

• Current Role: Governor of South Dakota
• Background: Kristi Noem has been the Governor of South Dakota since 2019. Before becoming governor, she served in the U.S. House of Representatives.
• Influence: Noem has gained national attention for her conservative policies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is seen as a rising star in the Republican Party and a potential future presidential candidate.

5. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

• Current Role: U.S. Representative from New York’s 14th Congressional District
• Background: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, often referred to as AOC, became the youngest woman ever elected to Congress in 2018. She is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America.
• Influence: AOC has been a leading figure in the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, advocating for the Green New Deal, Medicare for All, and social justice issues. Her use of social media has significantly amplified her influence.

6. Gretchen Whitmer

• Current Role: Governor of Michigan
• Background: Gretchen Whitmer has been the Governor of Michigan since 2019. Before that, she served in the Michigan State Senate, including as Senate Minority Leader.
• Influence: Whitmer has been a prominent figure in state-level politics, particularly noted for her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and infrastructure initiatives. She is also considered a potential future presidential candidate.

7. Nikki Haley

• Current Role: Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations
• Background: Nikki Haley served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations from 2017 to 2018 and was the Governor of South Carolina from 2011 to 2017.
• Influence: Haley is a significant figure in the Republican Party, known for her strong stance on foreign policy and her advocacy for human rights. She is often mentioned as a potential presidential candidate.

8. Stacey Abrams

• Current Role: Voting Rights Activist and Former Minority Leader of the Georgia House of Representatives
• Background: Stacey Abrams is known for her work in expanding voting rights and her efforts to combat voter suppression. She ran for Governor of Georgia in 2018.
• Influence: Abrams’ work in mobilizing voters and her advocacy for electoral reforms have had a substantial impact on U.S. politics. She is credited with playing a key role in the Democratic victories in Georgia in the 2020 elections.

9. Tammy Duckworth

• Current Role: U.S. Senator from Illinois
• Background: Tammy Duckworth is a combat veteran and former Assistant Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs. She lost both legs in the Iraq War.
• Influence: Duckworth has been an advocate for veterans’ issues, disability rights, and healthcare. Her personal story and resilience have made her a respected figure in American politics.

10. Marsha Blackburn

• Current Role: U.S. Senator from Tennessee
• Background: Marsha Blackburn has been a U.S. Senator since 2019, and previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives.
• Influence: Blackburn is known for her conservative views and strong stance on issues such as national security and economic policy. She is a prominent figure in the Republican Party and a vocal supporter of conservative principles.

These women have played significant roles in shaping U.S. policy and politics, each bringing unique perspectives and leadership styles to the forefront of national and international discussions.