In this day and age it is difficult to find positive role models for our children. A basic definition of a role model has been said to be—someone who displays behavior and social norms that another person or persons find worthy to emulate.
Politics over the years tend to carry a negative connotation because of the amount of funding that it takes for one to be able run a competitive race. Any time there is money involved it brings with it skepticism and search for scandalous behavior. So the words role model and politics in the same breath can become a conundrum. Then you add a “female” candidate, and she has her work very much cut out for her.
One such role model that our future girls have to look up to is Governor incumbent Nikki Haley in South Carolina. Mrs. Haley in 2011 became the first female governor in South Carolina’s history. Her persistence and patience have been some of best assets.
She also is a mother, and will be challenged with the dual role that many other career mothers’ can relate to. A benefit she has going in is that (most) women are more willing to compromise and listen than their male counterparts. Studies have also shown that women are less likely to interrupt and more open to staff and public suggestions than a male would.
Overall, we have as a nation, an opportunity to give each individual a chance at make a difference in many lives. Women and young girls need strong role models to help them to know that anything they want to accomplish they can with hard work, and not run into the gender bias that still hinders females.