Karen Keiser represented Washington's 33rd Legislative District in the State Senate, covering parts of Burien, Normandy Park, SeaTac, Kent, Des Moines, and nearby areas south of Seattle. Born September 29, 1947, in Sioux City, Iowa, she served nearly 30 years in the legislature—first in the House from 1996 to 2001, then the Senate from 2001 until her retirement in December 2024. Notable achievements include chairing the Labor & Commerce and Health & Long Term Care Committees, implementing the Affordable Care Act, passing Washington's paid family and medical leave program, capping insulin costs, and serving as President Pro Tempore and lead negotiator on the capital budget.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degree in political science and Master's degree in journalism from the University of California, Berkeley; attended John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.
• Early Career: Broadcast journalist in Portland, Denver, and Seattle; communications director for the Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO .
• Political Roles: Appointed to the House in 1995 ; appointed to the Senate in 2001 and re-elected multiple times; President Pro Tempore ; chair or vice chair of key committees including Ways & Means, Rules, and Labor & Commerce; focused on workers' rights, health care reform, and family issues.
• Personal: Married with three children; enjoys singing, dancing, and gardening.