Media Coverage of Minority Congresswomen and Voter Evaluations

Abstract

Scholars of gender and race politics have long drawn links between the media’s less than favorable treatment of women and minorities, and these candidates’ struggles to curry favor with voters. However, few have examined minority women’s coverage. This multimethodological study examines the nature and implications of the media’s treatment of Anglo, Latina, and African American congresswomen. The results indicate significant differences in the content of these women’s media coverage and its influence on voters’ attitudes. The implications of these findings for Anglo and minority women campaigning for and holding elective office are discussed.