The "Right" Women In Politics

[Audrie Zettick Schaller]

I read with interest Michelle Malkin's recent blog post on "Pelosi: We need more back-scratching Big Govt hacks in skirts like... It reminded me of how tough it is to be a female Republican.

When I ran for Congress (1990, PA-8), I had to put up with comments from both inside and outside the party. On the campaign trail, I had someone shout at me "why aren't you home having babies" (that was from a democrat woman). I was interviewed for a news article in which I was asked how I'd handle family (I had no kids yet) if elected. Sigh. Instead of the clever retort of "do you ever ask the guys that question" I actually tried to answer. I noted that I'd deal with it, and bring kids to the Capitol if necessary. Then I received flack from some Republicans, who claimed "I'd be using taxpayer money for babysitters." (Didn't say the staff would be watching them).

My mom, Elaine Zettick, was the first woman elected County Commissioner in Bucks County, PA. She received flack for the structural changes she made to the Commissioners' bathroom (the entrance from the back of the 3-commissioner area went only into the men's room). She wanted to be able to use the shower there. She sometimes slept on her couch when events necessitated a late night stay up-county and she couldn't make it home.

Even as a county commissioner, Mom sometimes had to sneak onto golf courses disguised as a man (registered as E. Zettick). Often, the only way to network with the "old boys" and big shots was on the golf course. (She'd beat them in the longest drive...proof that there is justice in the world).

Much has changed since the late 1970s and 1980s. But not everything.

As a Republican woman voter, I'd like to help elect more women. But more importantly, I vote for what is right for my country and state, not for gender politics.

One reason I'm involved in Smart Girl Politics is to help build a network of like minded women. Encourage them to be activists. Perhaps even run for office. Grow our "farm team."

Then maybe my choices on election day could include the "right" woman.

[~Dawn~]

Amazing story Audrey very encouraging and filled with "stories from the right" that are timely and suggest that we have come a long way while presenting some keys as to why women may have had such a hard time this election season, the perceptions and challenges are real and will be a key topic to keep in the forefront of SGP. Thank you for posting!