(Washington, DC) -- Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers released the following statement today regarding the passing of former Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn:

“Jennifer Dunn devoted her life to public service and to her family. She served Washington state with great honor and distinction and I have been honored to call her a friend and mentor.

“I first met Jennifer when she was the Chair of the Washington State Republican party. Ronald Reagan was her inspiration and she worked tirelessly to transform the Republican Party in our state – promoting the values we all hold dear – opportunity, freedom, and prosperity.

“In Congress, she always put Washington state and the people she represented first. As a single mother raising two boys, she understood the need for economic security and was a champion for lowering taxes so families could keep more of their hard earned money. She was an advocate for small business, a supporter of free trade and a champion for reforming our tax code.

“As a woman she had many firsts – the first woman to run the Washington State Republican Party, the first freshman woman to win a place in the House Republican leadership team and the first Republican woman to run for Majority Leader of the House of Representatives. She was only the fifth woman to serve on the Ways and Means Committee. She was an inspiration to me as well as women throughout our state and around the country.

“I will always remember Jennifer for her continual support, guidance and friendship. My condolences and prayers are with her family and for the many people she touched throughout her life.”