Women Set a New Record in Congress After Democratic GainsDemocratic Women’s Gains Put More Voices in PowerWomen’s Record Gains Still Fall Short of Equal Representation
After the 2026 midterm elections, a minimum of 159 women are expected to take seats in Congress in 2027, while a record 17 women are set to become governors. The gains are concentrated among Democrats and could influence policy debates in Washington and state capitals.The 2026 midterms are projected to send a record 159 women to Congress, with Democrats driving most of the increase. A record 17 women are also set to become governors, creating new opportunities to advance policy priorities including healthcare and childcare.A minimum of 159 women are expected to take seats in Congress in 2027, but women will still hold only about 30% of its seats. Democratic candidates account for most of the increase, while Republican women are projected to lose ground.