Definition
Rick Larsen is an American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for Washington's 2nd congressional district since 2001. He is a member of the Democratic Party.
Overview
Born on June 15, 1965, in New York City, Larsen earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of Washington. Prior to his election to Congress, he worked as a staffer for the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and served as chief of staff to state Representative Frank Chopp. In 2000, Larsen won the Democratic primary and the general election for Washington's 2nd district, a seat he has held through successive re‑elections.
During his tenure, Larsen has focused on transportation infrastructure, environmental protection, and technology innovation. He has held leadership positions on several committees, including the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, where he has served as a ranking member. He has also been a member of the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Natural Resources.
Larsen’s legislative record reflects support for expanding public transit, investing in renewable energy, and protecting the Puget Sound region. He is known for bipartisan collaboration on infrastructure projects and has co‑authored bills related to broadband expansion and climate resilience.
Etymology/Origin
The surname “Larsen” is of Scandinavian origin, meaning “son of Lars,” with “Lars” being a Danish and Norwegian form of the name “Laurence.” The given name “Rick” is a diminutive of “Richard,” derived from the Old Germanic elements ric (“ruler, power”) and hard (“brave, hardy”).
Characteristics
- Political affiliation: Democratic Party
- Congressional district: Washington's 2nd district, encompassing parts of Seattle’s suburbs, the Olympic Peninsula, and the Cascade foothills.
- Committee assignments (as of the 118th Congress):
- Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Highways and Transit)
- Committee on Appropriations (Subcommittee on Transportation, and Infrastructure)
- Committee on Natural Resources (Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources)
- Policy focus: Transportation funding, climate change mitigation, broadband access, fisheries management, and veterans’ affairs.
- Electoral history: First elected in 2000; re‑elected in every subsequent biennial election, often securing a majority of the vote.
- Public service: Prior experience as a legislative aide, policy analyst, and chief of staff; involvement in regional planning organizations and environmental advocacy groups.
Related Topics
- United States House of Representatives
- Washington's 2nd congressional district
- Democratic Party (United States)
- Federal Highway Administration
- Climate change legislation in the United States
- Broadband Infrastructure Act
- Pacific Northwest politics
All information presented reflects publicly available, verifiable sources up to the date of this entry.