On November 5th, history was made, as both Lisa Blunt Rochester and Angela Alsobrooks won their races, marking the first time two Black women will serve simultaneously in the U.S Senate.
Blunt Rochester, a Democratic Congresswoman from Delaware, makes two historic accomplishments, becoming the first woman and first Black senator to represent the state. Meanwhile, Alsobrooks, a former domestic violence prosecutor and county executive, will become Maryland’s first Black senator.
“The Legal Defense Fund congratulates Lisa Blunt Rochester and Angela Alsobrooks on their historic victories this evening, which will make them the first Black women to ever simultaneously serve as United States Senators,” the NAACP Legal Defense Fund stated.
“Black women uniquely share lived experiences at the intersection of racial inequality and gender injustice. Robust Black representation at every level of government is necessary to remedy pervasive inequities and affirm a true multiracial, multiethnic democracy,” LDF said.
Preparing for Election Day
As Election Day was slowly approaching, Blunt Rochester had high chances of defeating her opponent, Republican candidate Eric Hansen.
Hansen, a newcomer to politics, was at a disadvantage against Blunt Rochester. With strong support in a Democratic state, she was able to benefit from running unopposed in the Democratic primary.
Honored by her exciting Senate win, Blunt Rochester showed gratitude to those, including Black women, who paved the way. She stated, “We are a country that is strengthened over time by the soul and sacrifice of those who serve and by all of those who came before us.”
Closer Call for Alsobrooks
Alsobrooks had a much tighter Senate race with Republican Larry Hogan, the popular former Maryland governor. This defeat caught many individuals by suprise, as Hogan was viewed as the stronger contender in the race.
Despite his previous two gubernatorial election wins in Maryland, Hogan could not win over the people. Alsobrooks advocated on the issues of gun control and abortion rights, two major controversial topics in society today. Her leadership and guidance inspired the people to choose her for the U.S Senate.
Both Black Women are good friends and now Senate colleagues
As both women were campaigning in their states, they developed a friendship, referring to themselves as “sister senator-to-be”, according to Associated Press.
Moreover, they are D9 sisters, as Blunt Rochester, is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and Alsobrooks is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Resonated with Voters as Black Women
Blunt Rochester and Alsobrooks ran campaigns that conveyed their personal backgrounds and optimistic visions for the future. As Black women, they connected with voters by sharing their perspectives and addressing concerns on critical issues.
Their authenticity and grounded approach connected with people, allowing their character and leadership to shine. This genuine connection played a pivotal role in their victory, showcasing their ability to lead with sincerity and empathy.
These historic wins will double the number of Black women ever elected to the Senate, increasing the total from two to four.
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