A new report from the non-partisan group “California Women Lead” shows women make up 27 percent of the state legislature, and 25 percent of county boards of supervisors. That’s down from a few years ago. Rachel Michelin heads up the organization. She says the trend for local boards and commissions is also troubling:
“The reality is the number of women running for and getting elected to local office, which is the farm team, is decreasing.”
California Inspector General Laura Chick says time and money are barriers – but low approval ratings for elected officials may also play a role:
“Good, logical women who want to make a difference look at politics and government and say why would I want to get myself into that mess and my call is we need some heroic strong women who are willing to put on full metal jacket and come on into battle.”
The report comes on the heels of a Field Poll that finds GOP gubernatorial hopeful Meg Whitman leading all other candidates. California has never elected a female Governor.