In one of the most Conservative states in the country where it is rather difficult for women to gain equal presence in all fields, Barbara Ann Radnofsky has been breaking new ground in every way possible.

Radnofsky is well on her way to becoming the first woman Attorney General of Texas. Her 31-year legal career is nothing but successful—for more than half her time spent practicing law, Radnofsky has been named one of the “Best Lawyers in America”.

In addition, she achieved one of the most important “firsts” while working for the distinguished law firm Vinson & Elkins: She was the first woman to have children as an associate and make partner in the law firm. Furthermore, her strong record in representing the minority population will ensure that cases relating to discrimination based on race and gender will not be overlooked.

Radnofsky understands the way the economy disproportionately impacts women and minorities, and in one of the worst recessions since the Great Depression, there has never been a greater need for an Attorney General who is dedicated to helping these populations. Even today, women make approximately 78 percent of what men are paid, with this inequality significantly wider with women of color. In today’s economic climate, this kind of disparity is devastating.

The Texas primary for Radnofsky is exactly one week away. In a time when women are extremely underrepresented in state legislatures and face hurdles across the board, we need women like Radnofsky in positions of power.