Mike Kreidler

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Oic-commissioner-kreidler

Mike Kreidler is an American politician and former insurance commissioner of the state of Washington. Born on September 28, 1943, in Tacoma, Washington, Kreidler has had a long and distinguished career in public service, spanning several decades and encompassing roles in both state and federal government.

Early Life and Education

Mike Kreidler was born and raised in Tacoma, Washington. He pursued higher education at the University of Washington, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in optometry. Kreidler's commitment to education did not stop there; he furthered his studies by obtaining a Master's in Public Health from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), showcasing his deep interest in public health and policy.

Career

Military Service

Before embarking on his political career, Kreidler served in the United States Air Force. His time in the military not only demonstrated his commitment to serving his country but also provided him with valuable leadership experience.

Political Career

Kreidler's political career began in the Washington State Legislature, where he served as a member of the House of Representatives. His legislative work focused on health care, environmental protection, and consumer rights, themes that would continue to define his career.

In 1993, Kreidler was elected to the United States House of Representatives, representing Washington's 9th congressional district. During his tenure in Congress, he was known for his advocacy on health care reform and environmental issues. However, his time in Congress was relatively short-lived, as he was not re-elected in the 1994 midterm elections.

Following his congressional service, Kreidler did not step away from public service. Instead, he turned his attention back to state-level issues in Washington. In 2000, he was elected as the Washington State Insurance Commissioner, a position he held for multiple terms. As Insurance Commissioner, Kreidler focused on consumer protection, health care access, and insurance industry regulation. He was particularly noted for his efforts to implement the Affordable Care Act in Washington state, ensuring that residents had access to affordable health insurance options.

Legacy and Impact

Mike Kreidler's career is marked by his steadfast dedication to public health, consumer rights, and environmental protection. As Insurance Commissioner, he was recognized for his leadership in navigating complex health care reforms and for his commitment to making health care more accessible and affordable for the residents of Washington.

Personal Life

Outside of his public service, Kreidler is known to be a family man, dedicated to his wife Lela and their children. His personal interests include a passion for outdoor activities, reflective of his deep appreciation for Washington's natural beauty.

See Also

• Health care reform in the United States
• Affordable Care Act
• Insurance regulation in the United States