The growing appeal of the Democratic Party to women and the increasing hold Republicans have on American males has been one of the biggest political trends of the past 20 years. It has become increasingly problematic for both parties. And, as the last election proved, Democrats often have trouble attracting men for opposite reasons. Al Gore, for instance, was hurt in key states by his party's position on gun control, which cut into the union base in some states, such as West Virginia. The gender gap primarily is written about as an electoral phenomenon, when in fact the divide between the sexes drives many of the most intense policy debates in Washington.
Abortion rights are just one example.
The divide is deep and fundamental, and across the spectrum. Women generally expect more from government and are far more inclined to support gun control. Men see national security issues as more important, while women are more inclined to put premiums on domestic security issues such as education and health care. Women, by a 2-1 ratio, were far more inclined to say a congressional candidate's position on abortion was important. The organization, which specializes in donating to women candidates early in campaign cycles, has been instrumental in the rise of Democratic women in Congress since 1985.