The AP reports on new analysis from the Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University which looks at the likely negative impact of new congressional maps on female incumbents. It appears that being the last to the table and hence the most junior incumbent is what is driving the dynamic.

“[I]n states with new district boundaries, the Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University found more than a dozen women so far who are running in significantly tougher territory. That’s more than double the number who are in districts that will be significantly easier to win after redistricting, the analysis found as of this month.”

“Ultimately, the new maps will be a factor in whether women maintain or grow their numbers in the next Congress to more accurately reflect the makeup of the country, a goal members of both parties have concentrated on. Currently, female representatives make up about 28% of the 435 House members, with Democratic women holding roughly three times the number of seats as GOP women.”