In her article for Foreign Affairs, Linda Robinson contends that Harris’s ascent to the presidency would help dismantle persistent gender biases, both in the US and globally, challenging stereotypes about women’s capabilities in leadership, especially in areas like national security and defense.
In her article, A Woman in the White House: If Harris Wins, Her Gender Would Have More Than Symbolic Significance, Linda Robinson argues that a Kamala Harris presidency could be transformational both as a symbol and in practical governance. Robinson posits that Harris’s rise to the presidency would challenge global gender biases, with implications for empowering women worldwide. According to Robinson, Harris’s election could help dismantle stereotypes that men are inherently better suited for political leadership—an idea that 49% of people globally still hold, according to the 2023 Gender Social Norms Index. Harris’s success would show women and girls that they can aspire to and attain the highest offices of power.
She states: “challenging stereotypes and inspiring a new generation of women leaders would be important accomplishments of a Harris presidency. But her administration could do even more. She could also use her experience and the insights afforded by her identity to advance peace and prosperity at a turbulent time, adopting an approach to global affairs that expands alliances, embraces global governance reform to bring in new voices and ideas, and harnesses the undertapped potential of half the planet. From reproductive health to economic participation to gender-based violence, matters identified as women’s issues are too often granted less attention and less funding than they deserve. Making them integral parts of policy can go a long way toward addressing many of the economic, political, and social problems that ail the United States and countries across the world.”
Furthermore, Robinson contrasts Harris’s dedication to democracy with former President Trump’s history of disregarding democratic norms, arguing that Harris would likely champion the defense of democracy globally, especially against authoritarian regimes.
Additionally, Robinson emphasizes that Harris’s leadership could redefine U.S. foreign policy by placing human-centered issues—such as women’s rights, reproductive health, and gender-based violence—at the forefront. She contends that elevating these issues would not only benefit women but also create broader societal gains, given the global gender gap’s impact on poverty, health, and security.
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