Born in Seattle, King County, Wash., October 11, 1950; graduated, Washington State University 1972; education volunteer 1977-1984; instructor, Shoreline Community College, Shoreline, Wash., 1984-1987; citizen lobbyist for environmental and educational issues 1983-1988; member, board of directors, Shoreline School District 1985-1989, serving as president and legislative representative for two terms; member, Washington state senate 1988-1992, Democratic whip 1990-1992; elected as a Democrat to the United States Senate in 1992; reelected in 1998 and in 2004 for the term ending January 3, 2011; chairwoman, Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (One Hundred Seventh Congress).
