Senator Patty Murray, Democratic from Washington

Patty Murray

Senator · Washington · Democrat

Patty Murray

Senate Floor

Recent comments in the Senate

Mr. President, as President Trump himself has admitted-- his quote--``I am not so careful with what I say'' and ``Americans' financial situation? I don't think about anybody.'' No kidding. We noticed. When it comes to the economy, President Trump's statements could not be more divorced from reality, let alone the experience of everyday Americans. Yes, in a shock to no one, the billionaire who gets advice from a trillionaire is way out of touch today with everyday people. Trump said last year that he never even knew the word ``affordability'' until recently.
Trump Administration (Executive Session)··Share
Mr. President, in the face of the skyrocketing prices Trump has caused with his own policies, he has been trying to sell voters a new, empty promise about $5,000 checks that everyone knows are never coming. But we have a bill today that could actually save families thousands of dollars. All we need is for Republicans to join us, to stand up to Trump, and to pass this bill that will end Trump's deranged trade wars. It is, quite literally, a bill to cut taxes so Republicans should all be for it, and it will save families big time.
PROTECT COLLEGE SPORTS ACT OF 2026--Motion to Proceed··Share
Mr. President, I was never going to come out here and support Todd Blanche for a long list of reasons. I do believe he is one of the most corrupt Justice Department officials in our country's history, for one. He was Trump's former personal lawyer, and it seems that he never quit. The only difference now is that taxpayers are signing his checks instead of Trump.
Nomination of Todd Blanche (Executive Calendar)··Share
Biography
Patty Murray began her public service as a preschool teacher and grassroots advocate in Washington. First elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992, she represents Washington state and has become a leading voice on veterans’ affairs, healthcare access, and education funding. Murray authored the bipartisan budget deal of 2013 and currently serves as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, overseeing federal spending priorities. She is known for her pragmatic approach and commitment to amplifying the needs of working families in her state and nationwide.
Education
  • B.A., Washington State University, Pullman, WA
    1972
Professional History
  • U.S. Senator

    1993–Present

    Senator from Washington. 6 terms.

  • State Senator, Washington State Senate (1st District)

    1989–1993

    Elected to the Washington State Senate in 1988, representing the 1st legislative district for one term.

  • Member, Shoreline School District Board of Directors

    1985–1989

    Served on the local school board in King County after winning election to the Shoreline School District board.

  • Parenting Instructor, Shoreline Community College

    1984–1987

    Taught a parenting class at Shoreline Community College.

  • Preschool Teacher

    Worked for several years as a preschool teacher after graduating from Washington State University.

Policy Focus
Armed Forces and National Security12%
Health11%
Labor and Employment9%
Education5%
Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Patty Murray's record in Congress.

  • Veterans' Health Care

    Championed the passage of the VA MISSION Act to improve veterans’ access to health care and community providers.

  • Education Funding

    Secured increased federal funding for Pell Grants and Head Start to expand educational opportunities for low-income students.

  • Paid Family Leave

    Co-authored the Family and Medical Insurance Leave (FAMILY) Act to establish national paid family and medical leave.

  • COVID-19 Relief

    Helped negotiate and pass the CARES Act, providing emergency economic relief during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Committee Assignments
View details →
  • Senate Committee on AppropriationsRanking Member
  • Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
  • Senate Committee on the Budget
  • Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs

Sen. Patty Murray FAQ

Reach Washington Lawmakers

Senator Murray focuses on Armed Forces and National Security, Health and Labor and Employment. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Washington's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.

Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.

Start a Campaign