Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement on the retirement of U.S. Representative Jim McDermott (WA-07).

“Our state and our country are healthier, better educated, and more progressive because of Jim McDermott’s career dedicated to improving the lives of others. Whether working as a doctor overseas, or leading the fight on progressive causes in the United States Congress, Jim is truly one of our country’s most passionate, fearless advocates for workers and families, and I’m proud to call him a colleague and friend. I’m especially inspired by his decades-long effort to ensure that every citizen in this country has access to affordable, high-quality health care, as well as his tireless work on behalf of the working class and underserved communities. Jim will be sorely missed in the United States Congress and I wish him the best.”