Half-Broke Ceilings: Women Leaders in U.S. State Legislatures

Advocates of legislative term limits have long promised that this institutional shift would increase diversity. Since their implementation, however, scholars have found that these changes did not come to fruition. Despite these unfulfilled promises, individuals can no longer occupy leadership positions for 20+ years. While the initial effects of term limits stunted efforts to create more diverse legislatures, those same limits created opportunity. This study uncovers the different factors that contribute to more women gaining power in state legislatures. Originally collected data from state legislatures reveals that by removing long-standing incumbents, women were able to make some gains in leadership. However, this is highly restricted by position. This research suggests that limitations on service may benefit minority legislators beyond what was previously understood, but not in all cases.