Marilyn Strickland made history in 2020 as one of the first Korean American women elected to Congress, bringing her extensive executive experience as the former mayor of Tacoma, Washington. During her tenure leading the city from 2010 to 2017, she focused on economic development and urban revitalization, helping transform Tacoma's downtown core. In Congress, she has emerged as a pragmatic voice on infrastructure, transportation, and small business issues, drawing on her background in both public service and the private sector. Her legislative priorities reflect her Pacific Northwest roots, emphasizing climate action, support for military families, and policies that strengthen America's ties with Asian Pacific nations.