Last Tuesday, millions of Americans amassed on the National Mall to witness the historic swearing in of our 44th President, Barack Obama.  Being a member of the Democratic Leadership, I was fortunate enough to have a seat directly behind the President and was able to snap some great pictures of the event.  The following day, Washingtonians that were in D.C. for the Inauguration were invited to a coffee with, Senator Maria Cantwell and I, as well as Reps. Jay Inslee, Jim McDermott and Dave Reichert.  I was delighted to have the opportunity to talk to my constituents and share my incredible experience with them.

Senator Murray Hosts Coffee Party for Washingtonians in D.C. – KNDO/KNDU

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Given the unprecedented nature of last Tuesday, I wanted to be the eyes and ears for those of you who were unable to make the trip to the “other Washington.”  I started my blog last Thursday and continued updating it through Inauguration day.  Seeing the millions of Americans waving our Flag, gathered to usher in a new chapter of history, was an amazing experience - one that I will never forget.  In addition to my posts, Washingtonians contributed their accounts leading up to Inauguration day.

Read my blog.  Scroll down for posts from fellow Washington residents.

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In his first week in office, President Barack Obama made a decision to lift the Global Gag Rule that places restrictions on federal funding to health care organizations around the globe.  I applaud this action.  The gag rule undermined reproductive healthcare, hurt efforts to prevent HIV and AIDS, restricted access to contraception, and placed limitations on women and doctors that would be viewed unacceptable in the United States.  The reversal of this shortsighted policy ensures safe, accessible health care to women around the world and affirms that President Obama takes seriously his commitment to our global community.

Details

Read the letter I sent to the President urging him to lift the Global Gag Rule.

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Early this year, increased rainfall and the melting of high levels of snow sent avalanches, floods and mudslides into the homes and communities of Washington residents.  On January 22nd,  I teamed up with the rest of the Washington state Congressional delegation and sent a joint letter to the President asking him to act quickly to approve the request for federal assistance submitted by Governor Chris Gregoire.

Read the letter we sent to the President.

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