Lillian's List of NC

Cotham's experience of bringing her child with her to the legislature - something male lawmakers don't do - and the attendant multi-tasking it requires underscore the challenges that women can face. That's probably why many females only turn to political office after they've retired and their children are adults.

Cotham said Perdue has been actively trying to change that by encouraging women to seek political office and mentoring those already serving. "I'm grateful to the governor for blazing the trail, and setting a positive example," Cotham said.