The Honorable Jim McDermott

Jim McDermott was the first member of his family to attend college, and went on to finish medical school. After completing his medical residency and military service, he made his first run for public office. In 1987, after 15 years of legislative service, Rep. McDermott decided to leave politics and continue in public service as a Foreign Service medical officer based in Zaire, providing psychiatric services in sub-Saharan Africa. When the Seventh District Congressional seat later became open, he returned to run for the U.S. House of Representatives.

A physician, Rep. McDermott is especially interested in health care issues. He is the co-author of National Health Care legislation and is leading the fight in the House of Representatives to guarantee all Americans comprehensive health care coverage. Rep. McDermott is married to Therese Hansen, an attorney in Seattle. He has two adult children and a granddaughter.