Washington state Senator Maria Cantwell is running for re-election in 2018. If elected, it will be her 4th term in the Senate.
Background and Achievements
A Miami University graduate, Maria Cantwell was elected to the Washington State Legislature at the age of 28. In 1992, she became the first democrat elected to Washington’s 1st District in 40 years. Since then, Senator Cantwell has proved herself to be a strong advocate for middle class families, students, and workers. In the House of Representatives, Maria fought to protect family-owned businesses, healthcare for children, and economic security.
As a two-term senator, Cantwell has taken decisive stands on a wide range of issues, all for the betterment of those she represents in Washington. She has cut taxes for the middle class and prevented the wealthy from receiving unfair tax cuts. She is one of the leading senators in the fight for clean energy and environmental protection. Maria currently serves on 5 committees: Commerce, Science and Transportation, Energy and Natural Resources (Ranking Minority Member), Finance, Indian Affairs, and Small Business and Entrepreneurship. She was awarded the Legislator of the Year Award from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials for her work on low-income housing credit, the Leadership Award from the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation (NMSF) for her work on ocean conservatism, and the Award of Excellence from the Everett Area Chamber of Commerce for her diligent advocacy for business.
Positions on Key Issues
- Strong advocate for environmental reform and climate change
- Supportor of LGBTQ rights and same-sex marriage
- Champion of women's rights and reproductive rights
- Voted no against Trumpcare in all of its forms
- Advocate for a higher minimum wage and pay equity
- Proponent for making higher education more affordable and accessible
- Voted yes on reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act
- Supporter of Afghan women’s human rights
Prospects & Opponents
Senator Cantwell is expected to win re-election. In Washington primaries, the two candidates who receive the most votes move onto the general election regardless of party. Cantwell won the primary with 55.4% of the vote. Republican Susan Hutchison got second with 23.8% of the vote. The two will run against each other in the general election, but Cantwell is the clear favorite.