The power of female voters in California, especially those 40 and older, has been steadily growing, and today their influence is at an all-time high. This demographic not only represents a significant portion of the electorate but also has the potential to profoundly shape society. AARP’s “That Difference: California” The statewide study sheds light on how these women’s priorities and concerns evolved and informed their growing political power and social influence.

Women 40 and older now make up more than a third of California voters who will vote in November 2024. The size of this group means its collective voice has the power to influence elections at every level of government, from local schools. They are appointed to the governorship. AARP’s research series made it possible to explore the specific priorities and concerns of this influential demographic group. The survey of 1,611 voters in this key group explored voting and election priorities, views on housing, long-term care, financial security and federal programs such as Medicare and Social Security.

The Development of Women’s Suffrage in California
To understand the growing power of female voters today, it is important to look at historical context. Women’s suffrage in California was granted in 1911, nearly a decade before the 19th Amendment was ratified nationwide. But the journey from suffrage to significant political influence was long and complex. In the mid-20th century, women’s participation in politics was largely limited due to social expectations. Although women did vote, their political power was often diminished due to low voter turnout rates and less participation in the political process. As more women entered the workforce and gained higher education, their political participation began to increase, but it was not until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that women, especially older women, emerged as a formidable voting bloc.

There has been a significant change in the last few decades. The rise of the women’s rights movement, a greater focus on issues such as equality and health, and the increasing representation of women in political office have contributed to the increased political power of female voters. Today, in California, women over 40 not only participate in elections, they also take responsibility, often determining the results of important races. A Regional Look at National Issues The growing power of women in the voting booth is not limited to California.

In fact, women over 50 have a high propensity to vote nationally. U.S. Election Project data found that voter turnout rates increase with age, with women voting at higher rates than men. AARP national polling shows that more women over 50 voted this year than other voter groups, including younger women and men in the same age group. And they moved in favor of presidential candidate Kamala Harris. In January, women over 50 supported President Joe Biden by three points; By September, they supported Harris by 12 points. Current Situation: AARP’s Views on Female Voters Age 40 and Older AARP’s “The O Difference: California” study highlights several key factors that demonstrate the growing power of female voters age 40 and older. Not only is this demographic more engaged than ever before, but their concerns and priorities reflect broader societal trends that have the potential to create significant change. One of the most striking findings of the AARP survey is the high level of political participation of women over 40. This group consistently shows higher voter turnout rates compared to younger demographics. Many of these women have been voting for decades, and their commitment to the electoral process is unwavering. They are not just ordinary voters; They are knowledgeable, passionate, and driven by a desire to see meaningful change in their communities. This high level of participation is partly due to the fact that women over 40 are more likely to feel the direct impact of government policies, especially in areas such as health care, economic security, and housing. They are also more likely to be caregivers responsible for the well-being of both older and younger generations, further increasing their interest in political outcomes.

Shaping the Agenda: Key Issues Concerning Women in California
AARP’s research underscores that the issues that matter most to women over 40 are also some of the most pressing challenges facing California today. Their focus on health care, financial security, housing, climate change, and public safety reflects both personal concerns and a broader awareness of the societal challenges that need to be addressed. 85 percent of female voters over 40 say threats to democracy are the “most important” or “very important” issue that motivates them to vote, and financial security is almost as important.

The most important issues that concern them are: • Threats to democracy (85%) • Voting rights (84%) • Business and economy (84%) • Education (83%) • Division in the country (82%) • Inflation and rising prices ( 81%) • Gun violence (80%)

Although migration (70%) and climate change (65%) are not as high on the priority list as the seven categories listed above, the majority of women still consider these issues to be “very important.” Compared to voters across the country, California women are significantly more likely to worry about issues like jobs and the economy (84% vs. 66%), the cost of housing (76% vs. 63%), racism (71% vs. 71%). 59% and climate change (65% vs 54%).

Partisan bias among women certainly leads to differences in voters’ priorities. Top priorities by partisan affiliation include:

• Democrats: Gun violence (94%), threats to democracy (90%) and voting rights (90%) • Independents: Jobs and economy (87%), inflation and rising prices (84%) education (82%) and crime (82%) • Republicans: Inflation and rising prices (93%), crime (92%) and election security (90%).

Potential for Society-Changing Impact
As the influence of female voters ages 40 and older continues to grow in California, the issues they care about will likely become central to the political agenda not only in California but across the country. Policy Changes: A focus on health care, economic security, housing, and social justice is likely to lead to significant policy changes. As these women continue to advocate for change, we can expect to see more comprehensive healthcare reforms, stronger protections for working families, expanded affordable housing initiatives, and greater attention to equity and justice issues.

Shaping the Political Landscape: The growing power of women over 40 is also likely to reshape the political landscape. While it may become increasingly difficult for candidates who fail to address their concerns to win elections, those who advocate for issues important to this demographic will likely win their support and, with that, gain a significant electoral advantage. Cultural Shifts: Beyond politics, the influence of women over 40 is also driving cultural shifts.

Their commitment to values ​​like community, equity, and justice helps redefine what it means to be a leader and citizen in California. As their voices become louder, we can expect a more inclusive and compassionate political culture to emerge.

The Rise of Women Voters in California
AARP’s “Makes a Difference: California” study reveals that these women are not just voters, they are change makers. Their focus on critical issues, with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to their families and communities, positions them as a driving force in the state’s future. As their power continues to grow, so will their ability to effect the society-transforming changes they believe are necessary for a better, more just, and equitable California.

-Paul Williams