By Nick Starling nstarling@nebraska.tv
Facebook / Twitter @NTVNickStarling
Nebraska seemed the be leading the way of political women as the 1986 elections rolled around.
For the first time in U.S. history two women both from major parties were fighting it out to become governor of a state. Helen Boosalis, a Democrat and the Republican Kay Orr who won the election and became governor of Nebraska for 4 years.
"Kay Orr was a trailblazer running for governor and being successful," said UNK political science professor Claude Louishomme.
Since then, there's not been much to talk about in relation to women in Nebraska politics.
"The good news is nationwide more women are running, however in our state that doesn't seem to be the case," said Louishomme.
With national women political figures rising like Sarah Palin, Hillary Clinton and Michelle Bachman and becoming more prevalent, Nebraska seems to be behind the curve.
Taking a look at our current political situation we have here in Nebraska.
Our governor Dave Heineman, U.S. Senators Ben Nelson and Mike Johanns, and our three U.S. representatives Adrian Smith, Jeff Fortenberry and Lee Terry are all male.
Breaking it down to the legislature, just 11 out of 49 state senators are women...that's just 22% of the entire legislative body.
"We need more women. I'd love to see more women here and I try to encourage women every chance I get to consider. First and foremost this is an amazing opportunity for anyone man or woman," said state Senator Annette Dubas from legislative district 34.
Looking at the number of women senators over recent history 1998 was the peak since the unicameral was created at 13 of 49 senators. Since then, the numbers have decreased.
As for women going to Washington D.C. to represent Nebraska, only two women, Eva Kelly Bowring and Hazel Hempel Abel both in 1954 served...only for months.
One representative, Virginia Smith served the 3rd district for over 15 years.
