In 1972, Elizabeth Andrews became the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress from Alabama. She won a special election to replace her late husband, George William Andrews, representing southeast Alabama in Congress. She played a prominent role in her husband’s initial congressional election in 1944 by hosting campaign stops and giving speeches for him. During her own campaign for the seat, Andrews received support from Governor George Wallace and easily won the special election to replace her husband. After completing her late husband’s term, Andrews chose not to run for reelection. While in office, she championed several issues, including protecting Social Security benefits and dedicating Tuskegee University as a National Historic Site.

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