This news cheered Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, who has launched an effort called Off the Sidelines dedicated to ensuring that happens.

“At a time when there is so much dysfunction in Washington, we need more women at the table in government to unlock the partisan gridlock," Gillibrand said. "I am encouraged that a clear majority of New Yorkers believe there should be more women in office because they are more likely to solve problems and have the right priorities."

Gillibrand has been active in recent months in helping upstate Congresswoman Kathy Hochul win in a special election and in backing five female candidates involved in the Wisconsin State Senate recall effort.

"We have made progress this year with the election of Kathy Hochul and two new state legislators in Wisconsin," she added.  "But we must get more women off the sidelines. Every day, decisions are being made that affect our future, and too often, women’s voices are not part of the debate. Only when women are fully empowered will we be able to rebuild America’s economy with a thriving middle class.”