Biography
Richard Ray "Rick" Larsen, born on June 15, 1965, in Arlington, Washington, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving Washington's 2nd Congressional District since 2001. The district encompasses portions of Snohomish County and all of Skagit, Whatcom, Island, and San Juan counties. As the Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Larsen focuses on advancing infrastructure projects to stimulate economic growth and enhance transportation networks. He has been instrumental in securing significant federal investments for Washington State, including $8.2 billion from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law as of January 2024.
Larsen is also dedicated to environmental conservation, leading initiatives to preserve public lands, restore salmon habitats, and combat climate change through investments in clean energy. He supported the Inflation Reduction Act, marking a substantial federal commitment to addressing climate change.
In addition to his domestic focus, Larsen is active in international affairs. He co-chairs the bipartisan U.S.-China Working Group, aiming to educate Congress on U.S.-China relations, and is a member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, engaging in transatlantic security issues.
Larsen resides in Everett, Washington, with his wife, Tiia Karlén. They have two sons: Robert, who works in national security, and Per, an ensign in the United States Navy.
Education and Political Experience
-
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Pacific Lutheran University
- Master of Public Affairs from the University of Minnesota
-
Political Experience:
- Member of the Snohomish County Council
- Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2000; currently serving his thirteenth term
- Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
- Co-chair of the U.S.-China Working Group
- Member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly
Throughout his tenure, Larsen has been a proponent of infrastructure development, environmental protection, and international engagement, reflecting his commitment to both his constituents and broader national interests.
