Patty was born and raised in Bothell, Washington where she grew up with her parents and six siblings—including a twin sister. Her father managed a Main Street 5 and 10 cent store, where she worked growing up and first learned the value of strong work ethic. When Patty was a young teenager, her father—a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient—was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and in a few short years, his illness got so bad he could no longer work. Patty’s mother, who had stayed home to raise their family, had to take care of him while also working to support their family. She found some work, but it didn’t pay enough to support Patty and her six brothers and sisters—and a husband with growing medical bills. Thankfully, they lived in a country where the government didn’t just say “you’re on your own.”
Senator Murray knows our nation is faced with a growing global demand for energy, a severe reliance upon fossil fuels, and environmental concerns surrounding many of our current energy supplies. It will take American innovation and smart policies that encourage conservation, energy efficiency, and increased renewable energy research, development, and deployment to address the critical issue of climate change and create a comprehensive national energy policy.
Senator Murray has consistently fought for legislation that protects our environment and supports the unique resources and quality of life enjoyed in Washington state. She believes that environmental protection is compatible with long-term economic growth, and has joined with local leaders to protect our state’s environment and natural resources, enhance recreational opportunities in the region, and promote innovative, locally-based approaches.
Hanford workers and the Tri-Cities community sacrificed to help America win World War II and the Cold War, and Senator Murray has worked hard in the U.S. Senate to ensure that the federal government meets its moral and legal obligation to clean up Hanford as well as similar nuclear waste sites throughout the country. As a senior member of the Senate Budget Committee and the Senate Appropriations Energy and Water Development Subcommittee, Senator Murray has led efforts to increase resources for Hanford cleanup and to ensure that it is being done safely. Each year the President’s proposed budget falls short of what is needed to continue to make progress at Hanford, and each year Senator Murray pushes back against proposed cuts. Senator Murray will continue to fight to ensure this critical work stays on track.