Marilyn Rasmussen - FAQ
When was Marilyn Rasmussen first elected?
In 1980, Marilyn Rasmussen first took public office on the Eatonville school board. She held that office to 1987. In 1986, she was elected to the Washington State House of Representatives. She held that post until 1992, when she was elected to the State Senate, a position she held through 2008.
Where did Marilyn Rasmussen grow up?
Marilyn Rasmussen grew up in Seattle near the University District. Her mother succumbed to breast cancer when she was 15. She helped her aunt care for her two brothers, the youngest was 5 at the time. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1957.
Where did she go to college and what did she study?
Marilyn Rasmussen studied political science, art, literature and education at the University of Washington.
Did her childhood affect her career choices?
Yes, early on she learned to be a survivor. She could do anything, fix anything including car engines and build whatever, including tree houses, boats and a chicken coop. She was raised on Lake Washington and learned to swim soon after she learned to walk. When she was eight, she swam the 8 miles across the lake and dreamed of swimming the English Channel. Her biggest life inspiration (besides her mother) was her high school civics teacher, Mr. Preperzach. He taught about giving back to your community sometime in your life. Several of her Olympia colleagues took his class at Roosevelt and were inspired as well. Several years ago, they wrote him letters of appreciation.
What did she do after college?
She married and moved to the farm near Eatonville taking along her little brother. She dreamed of painting the mountain, but has not as yet. She says her oils are still soft ands there's plenty of time to do it, right after she swims the English Channel.
What does she think her greatest accomplishment was as a legislator?
Prime sponsor of the minor in possession bill that took effect in 1988. Washington was first in the nation and many other states followed her bill. Most teenagers know they lose their license if they are found in possession of drugs or alcohol. They cannot get a license at 16 or apply for a learners permit.
This year she sponsored a bill to take mercury out of vaccines for pregnant women and children under 3. Mercury is in every flu shot and DTP's and is known to cause neurological disorders in the fetus and lives over 6.5 hours in the brain of an infant. Washington was the 7th state in the nation to do this.
In her travels, what the most favorite place she has visited?
Russia and the Far East. They have beautiful hard working people who love poems and literature. They love their children and are truly survivors.
What is the most debatable thing she has presented in the legislature?
Mercury in vaccines, trying to eliminate the WASL as a graduation requirement, special education and elementary funding.
What is her life philosophy?
Look at everything as a glass not only half full, but bubbling over! Find the best in everyone and there is no situation that cannot be solved. The harder you work, the luckier you get. Take time to laugh and find a new friend every day. Best of all, watch and listen to children, they are the angels on Earth!
What legislative committees has Marilyn Rasmussen been on?
Committees:
Agriculture & Rural Economic Development
(chair)
Early Learning & K-12 Education
Ways & Means