Running in the Republican primary for a solid red House district on the outskirts of Houston, first-time candidate Jessica Hart Steinmann has two powerful advantages: an endorsement from President Donald Trump and the backing of organizations and individuals dedicated to bolstering the ranks of GOP women in Congress.
The attorney and former aide to Texas Sen. Ted Cruz said at least half of the Republican women in the House have called or texted to offer their support. As for Trump, “both he and the House leadership [are] really looking to make sure we broaden our base of who’s representing us in D.C.,” said Steinmann, who is running to succeed retiring Rep. Morgan Luttrell, who has also endorsed her.
Republicans have long lagged behind Democrats in recruiting and supporting female candidates for Congress, and the numbers reflect that: There are currently 94 voting Democratic women in the House, compared with 30 Republican women.
