Jane Swift: Motherhood in the Massachusetts Governor's Office
Steffany Stern, MPP, Humphrey School of Public Affairs

In 2001, Jane Swift became the first woman in history to serve as governor of Massachusetts, and the first governor in the history of the United States to give birth while in office. This case explores the ways in which these two factors, among other facets of Swift's time in office, contributed to public perception of her abilities and the outcome of her term. The case places Swift's narrative in the political context of Massachusetts and the history of women in electoral politics, and discusses the treatment of working mothers by the media. The case also focuses on the scrutiny of Swift's personal and public life, and the controversies that developed during her public service. The format of the case is not decision-forcing; it is a retrospective examination of events.