Three Women We'd Like to Run

Although the GOP Presidential field for 2024 is shaping up to be racially and ideologically diverse, former Secretary of State Nikki Haley remains the sole female to brave the front lines. As Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher famously quipped, “In politics, if you want something said, ask a man. If you want something done, ask a woman.” In an age of partisan stagnation, a woman’s touch may be what a nation adrift craves. Here are a few of our preferred go-getters whom we would like to see run in 2024. 

     1. Kristi Noem, Governor of South Dakota
Currently enjoying her second term as South Dakota’s Chief Executive, Kristi Noem knows a thing or two about landslide wins. Defending her title with a whopping 62% margin of victory, Governor Noem translated prudent Covid-19 protocol into a booming economy and nationally low unemployment rates for the Mount Rushmore State. While she would also make a stellar running mate for the eventual ticket topper, Noem could make a strong show on the primary campaign trail, possibly setting up future cycles. As a former State Legislator and Congresswoman, the Watertown, SD native boasts both the executive and legislative experience necessary to assume the Oval Office. At 51 years old, she also bridges a generational gap in a field that tends to err, either ancient or nascent, giving her unique positioning in the pack. 

     2. Marsha Blackburn, Senator from Tennessee
Known as one of the most conservative members of the United States Senate, Marsha Blackburn exemplifies strong women in politics. A teenage beauty queen who attended college on a 4-H scholarship, the Tennessean served as a State Representative and Senator before turning her eyes to Washington, DC. As a staunch opponent of Roe v Wade, Blackburn may also be the ideal Republican to debate the case’s recent overturn, particularly as a female. The reversal is likely to be one of the most impactful issues on this campaign trail and must be handled by a true expert with personal conviction on the matter. 
 
     3. Joni Ernst, Senator from Iowa
If she opts to do so, Joni Ernst will join Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as the second military veteran to enter the race. While nearly every candidate on the ballot used to claim some level of national service, it is becoming less common but no less crucial. On issues from military action to caring for our nation’s servicemen and women after they return home, personal experience can lend nuance and strategy to critical decision-making. While the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan catalyzed a new wave of veteran candidates, adding more to the Presidential roster is an additional step forward. With nearly 20 years of political service under her tactical belt- first as a county auditor, then as a state senator, and finally in the Upper Chamber- Ernst also possesses the civilian skills necessary to run an administration and a country. 

How would you feel about more women joining the GOP candidate list? Whom would you add to our list?

Hilary Gunn is a Connecticut native with a degree in Criminal Justice from the George Washington University. She works for a nonprofit and has previously collaborated with the CT GOP as an activist, political campaign manager and field director, and social media organizer. She is currently serving in her fourth term of municipal office and has previously acted as a delegate on the Republican Town Committee.