Representative Marilyn Strickland, Democratic from Washington

Marilyn Strickland

Representative · Washington · Democrat

Marilyn Strickland

House Floor

Recent comments in the House

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Ellery ``Ken'' Choke, the chairman of the Nisqually Indian Tribe, who passed away on August 4, 2026. Chairman Choke was born on February 25, 1964, in Centralia, Washington, and served as chairman of the Nisqually Tribe from 2018 to 2021 and was reelected chairman in 2024. Chairman Choke was a respected and beloved leader who placed his community at the center of service. He was dedicated to protecting the land, water, salmon, and people of the Nisqually Tribe for generations to come.
Tribute to the life and legacy of Ellery ``Ken'' Choke··Share
Biography
Marilyn Strickland, the daughter of a Korean immigrant and a U.S. Army veteran, built her career as the mayor of Tacoma before being elected as the U.S. Representative for Washington’s 10th District in 2020. In Congress, she prioritizes economic opportunity, affordable housing, and infrastructure development. Strickland has helped secure federal funding for regional transportation projects and serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. She brings a pragmatic, community-focused approach to representing the diverse needs of her district.
Education
  • M.B.A., Clark-Atlanta University, Atlanta, GA
    1992
  • B.A. in Sociology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
    1984
Professional History

  • U.S. Representative

    2021–Present

    Represented Washington's 10th congressional district for 3 terms.

  • President and CEO, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce

    2018–2020

    Led the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and opposed the proposed Seattle head tax during her tenure.

  • Mayor, City of Tacoma

    2010–2018

    Served as the 38th mayor of Tacoma, becoming the city's first Asian-born mayor and first African-American woman in the office.

  • Member, Tacoma City Council

    Served on the Tacoma City Council for two years before being selected as mayor in 2010.

Policy Focus
Armed Forces and National Security43%
Health14%
Agriculture and Food6%
Transportation and Public Works6%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Marilyn Strickland's record in Congress.

  • Affordable Housing Advocacy

    Secured federal funding for affordable housing projects in Washington’s 10th District to address homelessness and housing shortages.

  • Infrastructure Investment

    Helped deliver federal infrastructure funds to improve roads, bridges, and public transportation in the South Sound region.

  • Veterans Support

    Co-sponsored legislation to expand mental health resources and support services for veterans in Washington state.

  • Small Business Relief

    Supported COVID-19 relief measures providing grants and loans to small businesses in her district.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • House Committee on Armed Services
  • House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure

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