Gender-Based Differences in Perceptions of Male and Female City Council Candidates

Abstract

This research examines voter attitudes toward male and female candidates for entry-level multi-candidate city council positions under conditions of information. Substantive gender-based differences in evaluations of the office-related capabilities of male and female city council candidates were found. These differences may impede the election and political advancement of some female city council candidates. Given this, female candidates need to conduct campaigns which communicate sufficient information and control issues to counter or neutralize gender-related bias.