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 277 women who have served in Congress are current Members—76 in the House and 17 in the Senate. In total, there have been 238 women Representatives and 39 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–Present
Based on research conducted by the Congressional Research Service and supplemented by information drawn from the House Journal, Congressional Record, and online data available on the Web site of the Office of the Clerk.
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 Chairs of Subcommittees of Standing Committees in the U.S. House and Senate, 1947–Present
This table is based on information drawn from the Congressional Directory, various historical directories, and the United States Code Congressional and Administrative News.
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
A historical list of women of color who have served in the House since Representative Patsy Mink of Hawaii became the first in 1964.
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.