COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina could have the only state Senate in the nation without a woman politician.

The Nov. 4 election will determine whether the chamber returns to an all-male membership not seen here for three decades. Three women are trying to stop that from happening, but they acknowledge it's a steep task. Former state Rep. Margaret Gamble and Sumter 2 school board member Karen Michalik face entrenched incumbents.

The odds for Democrat Mandy Powers Norrell are considered better, because she's going for an open seat. Experts say women are needed in politics because they bring different life experiences that shape different priorities than men.

Since 2003, South Carolina has ranked last nationwide in the percentage of women in its Legislature.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)