The Top 20 Women in US Politics Who Could Have Been President: Why a Female Leader Exemplifies True Democracy
In the history of the United States, no woman has yet ascended to the highest office in the land—the presidency. However, many remarkable women in U.S. politics have paved the way for future female leaders, displaying the intelligence, capability, and resilience needed to serve as president. These 20 women, though never elected to the presidency, could have carried the mantle of leadership, reflecting the evolving face of democracy in the country.
1. Kamala Harris
As the first woman and woman of color to serve as Vice President, Harris has already broken major barriers in U.S. politics. Her background as a prosecutor, Attorney General of California, U.S. Senator, and now Vice President underscores her capability to lead. With her unique combination of progressive policies and pragmatic politics, Kamala Harris represents the future of female leadership in America.
2. Hillary Clinton
As the first woman nominated by a major political party for president in 2016, Clinton came closer than any woman to winning the office. Her extensive experience as Secretary of State, U.S. Senator, and First Lady equipped her with deep knowledge of foreign and domestic policy.
3. Shirley Chisholm
The first Black woman elected to Congress, Shirley Chisholm, also became the first woman to seek the Democratic nomination for president in 1972. She was a trailblazer for women of color in politics and a staunch advocate for civil rights.
4. Elizabeth Warren
A powerful voice for economic reform, Senator Elizabeth Warren's 2020 presidential run underscored her progressive credentials and her detailed policy plans for tackling systemic inequality in America.
5. Condoleezza Rice
As Secretary of State under President George W. Bush, Rice was a key figure in shaping U.S. foreign policy post-9/11. Her diplomatic and leadership skills made her a strong candidate for executive leadership.
6. Nancy Pelosi
Pelosi, the first woman Speaker of the House, was instrumental in key legislative victories, including the Affordable Care Act. Her leadership has shaped U.S. policy for decades, and her ability to unite a divided House showcased her presidential potential.
7. Geraldine Ferraro
Ferraro made history as the first woman to be a vice-presidential candidate for a major political party in 1984. Though the Democratic ticket lost, Ferraro opened the door for future female vice-presidential contenders.
8. Barbara Jordan
The first African-American woman to deliver a keynote address at a Democratic National Convention, Jordan was a forceful advocate for civil rights and the Constitution. Her eloquence and legal expertise positioned her as a potential national leader.
9. Michelle Obama
Though she has never run for office, Michelle Obama's popularity, intelligence, and advocacy for education, health, and equality make her a potential candidate for future presidential leadership.
10. Susan Collins
A moderate Republican with a long career in the U.S. Senate, Collins has often been a key swing vote on major legislation. Her bipartisan approach and steady leadership make her a plausible candidate for national leadership.
11. Amy Klobuchar
Known for her pragmatic approach to governance, Senator Amy Klobuchar’s 2020 presidential campaign showcased her ability to build coalitions and win over swing voters, a crucial skill for any future president.
12. Dianne Feinstein
With decades of service in the Senate, Feinstein played a key role in issues ranging from gun control to national security. Her deep experience and measured approach to policy made her a potential presidential contender.
13. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
Though early in her career, AOC has already reshaped American political discourse with her unapologetically progressive stance. Her leadership of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party could lead to future national ambitions.
14. Stacey Abrams
A champion for voting rights and democracy, Abrams’ leadership in Georgia has been pivotal in reshaping the electoral landscape. Her dedication to fair elections makes her a key figure in U.S. politics.
15. Maxine Waters
Waters’ long career in the House has made her a leading voice on financial reform and racial justice. Her fearless advocacy for underrepresented communities would have translated into powerful national leadership.
16. Janet Napolitano
As the former Secretary of Homeland Security and Governor of Arizona, Napolitano’s leadership credentials, particularly in matters of national security, mark her as a formidable potential leader.
17. Patricia Schroeder
As a pioneering woman in Congress, Schroeder was known for her advocacy for women’s rights and family leave. She was an early feminist icon in U.S. politics, paving the way for future women in leadership.
18. Jeane Kirkpatrick
As the first woman to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Kirkpatrick was a key figure in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War and a respected voice in international affairs.
19. Olympia Snowe
A respected moderate Republican, Snowe served as both a Senator and Representative from Maine. Her independent and bipartisan approach in Washington earned her the reputation of a sensible and capable leader who could have bridged divides as president.
20. Tammy Duckworth
A war veteran and U.S. Senator from Illinois, Tammy Duckworth has been a vocal advocate for veterans, healthcare reform, and disability rights. Her resilience, leadership, and unique perspective would make her an inspiring presidential candidate.
The Case for a Woman Leader in Democracy
A true democracy thrives when its leadership reflects its population. Women make up over half of the U.S. population, yet no woman has led the country. Female leadership is not just symbolic; it reflects a government's commitment to inclusivity, balance, and justice. Research has shown that countries with female leaders often perform better in terms of economic growth, health outcomes, and social equality.
Globally, we’ve seen examples of female leaders who exemplify democratic values:
- Angela Merkel (Germany) led her country for 16 years, known for her pragmatism, steady leadership, and commitment to European unity.
- Jacinda Ardern (New Zealand) has gained international acclaim for her empathetic response to crises, from the Christchurch shooting to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberia) brought stability and progress to Liberia, making strides in health and education.
- Indira Gandhi (India) led the world's largest democracy through turbulent times with decisive leadership.
- Sirimavo Bandaranaike (Sri Lanka) became the world’s first female Prime Minister, setting a global precedent for women in leadership.
- Margaret Thatcher (United Kingdom) reshaped British politics and remained a powerful figure on the global stage during the Cold War.
These leaders demonstrate that women bring a distinct perspective to governance. Female leadership often emphasizes collaboration, compassion, and long-term vision, qualities that are increasingly essential in a complex, interconnected world.
Conclusion
While the U.S. has yet to see a woman president, many women in politics have proven they possess the skills and leadership necessary for the role. A true democracy is only complete when every part of society can see itself in its leadership. Having a woman as president is not just a matter of breaking a barrier—it is a matter of aligning the nation’s ideals with its reality. Women have led some of the world’s most successful democracies, and it is time for the United States to follow suit.
