For Immediate Release:

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

(Washington, D.C.) - Today, the Senate Democratic Caucus of the 111th Congress re-elected Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) to serve as Democratic Conference Secretary - the 4th most powerful position among Senate Democrats.  Murray will be part of the elected leadership team responsible for running the Democratic Caucus for the 111th congress. As Conference Secretary of the Democratic Caucus, Murray will continue to help develop the majority's agenda and will help move legislation on the Senate floor. Senator Murray was first elected Senate Conference Secretary in 2006 and has served in appointed positions in the Democratic Leadership since 1999.

Senator Murray's statement follows:

"I'm honored that Democrats have re-elected me to the leadership team of the Senate Majority and I look forward to working to address the enormous challenges we face as a state and nation.

“This is a great honor for me, but more importantly this is a way to ensure that the issues Washington state families care most about are on the agenda in Washington, D.C.  That’s because being part of the Senate leadership allows me to give voice to our state’s concerns when critical decisions are being made. And with more Washington state residents worrying about their jobs, their ability to pay the bills, and their access to health care, our seat at the table is more important than ever.

“In the coming Congress, I plan to use my role in the leadership to push for a bold economic stimulus that will help our state’s economy and transportation infrastructure grow, to continue to fight for the care our veterans deserve, to ensure our young people have the skills needed to compete for family wage jobs, and to keep our state and country safe.

“I also look forward to working with President-elect Obama to deliver the change that so many Americans called for on November 4th.  Make no mistake – there are serious challenges ahead and it will take time and sacrifice to get our country back on track, but I am grateful to have the opportunity to help deliver on the call to put our differences aside and get to work for the future of America.”