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 believes that the right to vote is essential to making sure our democracy stays a democracy. The ability for people to use their voice to vote and have a say in our government is foundational, and that means people have to have the power in our elections—not special interests, dark money, or just those at the very top. Senator Murray is working to use every legislative tool available, including an exemption to the filibuster, to strengthen voting rights and assure every American’s right to have their voice heard in our democracy.
Equal protection under the law is also foundational to our country. This is why Senator Murray works to end all forms of discrimination and ensure that everyone has equal opportunities regardless of race, religion, national origin, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
Senator Murray has made her commitment to racial justice in America clear. She believes that racial injustice and violence against Black people and other communities of color—from unfair lending practices and redlining of Black neighborhoods to egregious and painful instances of police brutality—continue to present real and ongoing challenges that demand action. That’s why in all of her work—from health care to education to workers’ rights—she prioritizes examining and eradicating systemic racism and discrimination which has too often led to communities of color, Indigenous people, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQIA+ community being left behind.
Senator Murray has also been commended a leader in the Senate for her efforts to bring diversity of background and professional experience to the federal bench, working to build faith in our institutions and ensure our courts are more reflective of the communities they serve.