18 women candidates to watch for the 2018 midterms

15. Yvette Herrell (R)

State: New Mexico
Race: 2nd District
Platform highlights: Unlike a majority of other female candidates running in this election, Yvette Herrell is a Republican. Furthermore, she is a conservative, with staunchly held views that are very likely to appeal to Republican voters.

Such views include a pro-life, anti-abortion stance, listed first on her website. This view also includes her desire to completely defund Planned Parenthood and “support the defenseless.” Herrell also wants to combat illegal immigration into the United States, claiming that relatively unsecured borders allow dangerous individuals to cross into the nation.

Like many conservatives, Herrell has also stated that she wants to shrink the power of the national government, with more given to state and local administrations in its place. She has also pointed out her strong support for the Second Amendment, including her membership in the National Rifle Association, a widespread and often controversial gun advocacy group.

Herrell has been endorsed by the conservative House Freedom Caucus in this race.

Why you should watch out for her: Whether or not you agree with her political views, Herrell is running in a unique race. Her opponent, Democrat Xochitl Torres Small, offers up a near-polar opposite set of views and promises.

New Mexico’s 2nd District is also unique, given that it is a Republican-leaning district. The state’s two other districts tend to vote in favor of Democratic candidates. If Herrell wins, then the district continues on its conservative path. If she loses, however, that could spell major changes for New Mexico and the future of conservative politics in the region.

Campaign website: www.herrellforcongress.com