Cathy McMorris Rodgers

Cathy McMorris Rodgers is a prominent American politician who served as the U.S. Representative for Washington's 5th Congressional District from 2005 to 2025. Born on May 22, 1969, in Salem, Oregon, she grew up working in her family's orchard and was the first in her family to graduate from college. McMorris Rodgers earned a Bachelor's degree from Pensacola Christian College and an MBA from the University of Washington. Before her tenure in Congress, she served in the Washington State House of Representatives, including a term as Minority Leader from 2002 to 2003. In Congress, she held significant leadership roles, including Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Chair of the House Republican Conference .

Throughout her political career, McMorris Rodgers was known for her advocacy on issues such as energy policy, healthcare, and women's rights. She played a pivotal role in introducing legislation aimed at improving the lives of women, focusing on job training, flexible work schedules, tax breaks for families, and strengthening charter schools. She emphasized the importance of economic opportunities in winning the women's vote, stating, "Economic opportunities will win the women's vote." Additionally, she highlighted the need for a transparent and accountable government, saying, "When our Founders created this great experiment in self-governance, the House of Representatives became, by design, the body closest to the people."

In her personal life, McMorris Rodgers is a wife and mother of three. She has been an advocate for disability rights, inspired by her son Cole, who has Down syndrome. She has spoken about the importance of ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to live the American Dream, stating, "The ADA gave more than 50 million Americans with disabilities, just like my son Cole, the chance to live the American Dream and be defined only by their potential—not their limitations." After announcing she would not seek reelection in 2024, McMorris Rodgers expressed a desire to serve the people of Eastern Washington in new ways, reflecting her ongoing commitment to public service.