Jay Inslee

Jay Inslee, official 103rd Congress photo

Inslees and the Dalai Lama

Jay Inslee official portrait

Jay Inslee Speech (8724201105)

Jay Inslee presidential announcement - March 1, 2019 - 01 (cropped)

Jay Robert Inslee (born February 9, 1951) is an American politician, author, and attorney serving as the 23rd Governor of Washington, a position he has held since 2013. A member of the Democratic Party, Inslee served in the United States House of Representatives from 1993 to 1995 and again from 1999 to 2012. He is known for his advocacy on issues of renewable energy, environmental protection, and climate change.

Early Life and Education

Jay Inslee was born in Seattle, Washington, and raised in the nearby town of Bainbridge Island. He graduated from Ingraham High School in 1969 and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Washington. Inslee then received his Juris Doctor from Willamette University College of Law in 1976.

Political Career

Early Political Career

Inslee's political career began in the Washington State Legislature, where he served from 1989 to 1993. During his tenure, he focused on issues related to health care access and environmental protection.

U.S. House of Representatives

Inslee first served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1993 to 1995, representing Washington's 4th congressional district. After losing a re-election bid, he returned to private practice but was elected again in 1998 to represent Washington's 1st congressional district, serving until 2012. Throughout his time in Congress, Inslee was a vocal advocate for environmental issues, renewable energy, and the tech industry.

Governor of Washington

Inslee ran for Governor of Washington in 2012 and won, taking office in January 2013. He was re-elected in 2016 and 2020, becoming the first governor in over 40 years to be elected to three consecutive terms in Washington. As governor, Inslee has prioritized climate change, education funding, and public health. He has implemented policies to increase the use of renewable energy in Washington and has been a leader in the national conversation on climate change.

Personal Life

Inslee is married to Trudi Inslee, and they have three sons. He is an avid painter and cyclist.

Legacy and Impact

Inslee's tenure as governor has been marked by his aggressive approach to tackling climate change, making Washington a leader in environmental policy and renewable energy initiatives. His policies have often served as a model for other states and have established him as a prominent figure in national discussions on environmental issues.