ICYMI: DGA Panel on Women Governors’ Bold Leadership

Gov. Raimondo: “If we had more women running this country, we would be in much better shape.”

On Wednesday, the Democratic Governors Association hosted a panel featuring the six women Democratic governors representing Kansas, Maine, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, and Rhode Island, who have emerged as trusted figures in an uncertain time.

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Maine Gov. Janet Mills, and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer talked about their success and challenges in holding the highest office in the state with moderator Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo.

Currently, there are a record number of women serving as Democratic governors. The governors discussed what it’s like being a trailblazer, the importance of women and people of color having a seat at the table, and the policies they’ve been proud to enact including paid family leave, Medicaid expansion, and teacher pay raises.

They also spoke about the challenges Senator Kamala Harris will face as the first Black and South Asian woman Vice Presidential nominee – and how they are ready to have her back.

Here’s a sample of what they had to say:

Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo: “What do you get when you put a woman in the office? You get competence, compassion, and results.”

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown: “Women tend to run because we want to get something done. I call it ‘GSD’ – Get Stuff Done.”

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly: “Women, when there are problems, move in, take over, and fix the problem.”

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham: “We got to have each other’s backs. I do think this is an extraordinary opportunity for us to be doing that with Senator Harris on the ticket. This is a bridge to attack sexism head on.”

Maine Gov. Janet Mills: “I rely so much on the camaraderie and the communication with other women governors. […] It’s been a blessing to have your back, and for you to have my back during these extraordinary times.”

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer: “Being the first is just one part of our story, but we’re all determined not to be the last. [We want to] not just walk through the door but pull as many people through as we can.”

Watch the full discussion here.