Historical Data
The following lists were developed to answer reference questions often posed by Member offices, researchers, and the general public. Ninety-three of the 260 women who have served in Congress are current Members—76 in the House and 17 in the Senate. In total, there have been 222 women Representatives and 38 Senators. Eight women have served in both chambers.
Women Representatives and Senators by Congress, 1917–Present
This table is based on information drawn from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
Women Representatives and Senators by State and Territory, 1917–Present
The table is supplemented by an interactive map of the United States and is based on information drawn from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress. Names are followed by the year the Representative or Senator first took office.
Women’s Committee Assignments (Standing, Joint, Select) in the U.S. House and Senate, 1917–2006 [PDF]
This table is based on information drawn from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
Women Who Have Chaired Congressional Committees, 1923–Present
This table is based on information drawn from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
Women Elected to Party Leadership Positions, 1949–Present
A listing of individuals in elected caucus and conference positions based on research conducted by the Congressional Research Service.
Women of Color in Congress
Since Representative Patsy Mink of Hawaii won election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1964, a total of 39 women of color have served in the U.S. Congress.
Familial Connections of Women Representatives and Senators in Congress
A historical list of women Representatives with a marriage or familial connection who served in the House.
Women Members Who Became Cabinet Members and United States Diplomats
Through the opening of the 111th Congress, 14 congresswomen have been appointed by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Foreign Ministers, Ambassadors, and Cabinet Secretaries.