Missouri’s Amendment 3, Trump votes show our unpredictable political gender divide | Opinion

Ten days before the Nov. 5 election, I had the opportunity to present my collaborative research, “Shifts in Gender Dynamics: France’s Feminist Foreign Policy and the Rise of Female Far-Right Voters,” at the Fulbright Association conference in Washington, D.C. Engaging with scholars from across the globe underscored a recurrent singular focus: the influence of Donald Trump, particularly the legal and political controversies surrounding him and, ultimately, their effects on American women.

This exchange illuminated a gap between international academic viewpoints and the lived experiences of many Americans, encompassing real economic hardships, divisive rhetoric and widespread anxieties. Faced with a wide range of critical issues, American voters exhibit a nuanced, nonlinear and unpredictable approach to voting.

One question that continues to resonate is the extent and complexity of America’s gender divide, which became clear in Missouri’s recent election results. Our largely conservative state supported Amendment 3, upholding the right to reproductive autonomy, and rejecting government intervention in health care decisions. Voters across party lines supported this amendment, emphasizing individual freedom in personal health choices.

Yet many of these same voters backed Trump, a leader who appointed Supreme Court justices with the clear aim of overturning Roe v. Wade. This apparent contradiction raises questions about how Missouri women navigate conflicts between personal values and political affiliations.

Missouri’s voting patterns reveal that political identities may not directly reflect individual beliefs on social issues, especially in rural areas where conservative values often intersect with strong libertarian leanings against government overreach. The real question then is: What issues (or behaviors) do female voters consider nonnegotiable, regardless of party lines?

In navigating these complex voting decisions, it is also crucial to address how women in politics are treated. No woman stepping into the political arena should be subjected to name-calling, disrespect or devaluation, least of all by other women. Disagreement is healthy and essential to democracy, fostering growth and understanding. Yet disrespectful behavior erodes democratic foundations, obstructing our capacity for constructive dialogue. The recent campaign season brought many examples of divisive behaviors that diminish our democratic process.

Women should feel empowered to vote for any candidate without engaging in rhetoric that disrespects women in public life. We have a voice not only in elections but in our everyday interactions, and our words matter greatly. Amplifying respect strengthens our discourse and, ultimately, our communities.

This theme of mutual respect was central to my recent research on trailblazing Missouri women. The message was clear: Women thrive when they support one another. This does not mean we agree on every issue, at the ballot box or elsewhere, but we should value each other’s contributions and perspectives. Women face unique challenges. Let us not become one for each other. Our path forward lies in listening, empathizing and bridging divides. Healing our political and cultural rifts will require intentional efforts toward understanding and respect.

Robert Frost wisely observed, “In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It goes on.” Indeed, life and democracy go on, but they do so with greater purpose when we reflect on words and actions. If we aspire to create a more connected society, we must commit to dialogue rooted in respect and empathy.

As the world watches and young girls turn to us for guidance and inspiration, it is our collective responsibility to foster an America where their presence and inherent value are recognized and respected, regardless of politics.