Who Runs the World? 20 Women Proving No Men Needed in Shaping US Politics

Amy LewisNov 22, 2023

Minute Read

In the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. politics, women have made tremendous strides, breaking through barriers, and shaping the nation’s destiny. This article is a tribute to the 20 most powerful women in American politics, celebrating their accomplishments, influence, and contributions. From serving in the highest offices to championing important causes, these women have made their mark, proving that their voices and leadership are essential in the corridors of power.

Kamala Harris

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Kamala Harris, the first female Vice President, has made history as a groundbreaking figure in U.S. politics, breaking both gender and racial barriers.

Nancy Pelosi

Nancy Pelosi, the first female Speaker of the House, is a skilled and influential political leader who has been instrumental in shaping legislative outcomes.

Hillary Clinton

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Hillary Clinton’s tenure as Secretary of State and her groundbreaking presidential campaign have established her as a powerful figure in American politics.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

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The late Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, had a profound impact on the nation’s legal landscape.

Elizabeth Warren

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Elizabeth Warren, a U.S. Senator, is known for her advocacy of progressive policies, making her a formidable force in politics.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

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Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the youngest woman ever elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, has been a trailblazer for a new generation of politicians.

Condoleezza Rice

Condoleezza Rice served as the first African-American woman to hold the position of Secretary of State, leaving a lasting legacy in foreign affairs.

Janet Yellen

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Janet Yellen, the first woman to serve as U.S. Treasury Secretary, plays a key role in managing the nation’s economic policies.

Susan Collins

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Susan Collins is known for her influential role as a moderate Republican Senator, often playing a pivotal role in bipartisan negotiations.

Dianne Feinstein

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Dianne Feinstein’s long-standing political career and positions on crucial committees make her one of the most influential women in U.S. politics.

Kirsten Gillibrand

Kirsten Gillibrand, a U.S. Senator, has made her mark through her advocacy on issues like sexual assault and women’s rights.

Shirley Chisholm

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Shirley Chisholm made history as the first African-American woman elected to Congress and later became the first African-American woman to run for a major party’s presidential nomination.

Jeannette Rankin

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Jeannette Rankin was not only the first woman elected to Congress but also a pioneering figure in the women’s suffrage movement.

Patsy Mink

Patsy Mink’s groundbreaking achievements include being the first woman of color elected to Congress and co-authoring Title IX, which advanced gender equity in education.

Barbara Jordan

Barbara Jordan, a pioneering African-American woman in politics, delivered a historic speech during the Watergate hearings and was the first woman to give the keynote address at a Democratic National Convention.

Madeleine Albright

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Madeleine Albright served as the first female U.S. Secretary of State, advocating for diplomacy and human rights on the world stage.

Bella Abzug

Bella Abzug was a champion for women’s rights and co-authored crucial legislation that aimed to eliminate gender discrimination.

Janet Reno

Janet Reno became the first woman to serve as U.S. Attorney General, overseeing key legal decisions during her tenure.

Maxine Waters

Maxine Waters is known for her unapologetic advocacy for civil rights and social justice, earning her a place among the most influential women in U.S. politics.

Margaret Chase Smith

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Margaret Chase Smith, a trailblazing Senator, became the first woman to be elected to both the House of Representatives and the Senate, making her mark as a prominent political figure.