WHEREAS, Karen Marchioro began her distinguished political career more than 30 years ago when she campaigned for Senator George McGovern in 1972; and
     WHEREAS, Karen became active with the 48th Legislative District Democrats, her trademark smarts, energy, and bluster even then in abundance; and
     WHEREAS, Karen was elected to the chairmanship of the King County Democratic Party, a post she held proudly and fiercely; and
     WHEREAS, Karen became the first woman to chair the state Democratic Party in 1981, an office she held with verve and aplomb until 1992, having reinvigorated the party and infusing it with new spirit; and
     WHEREAS, Karen and a number of allies sued the state party to try to overturn a state law that gave each county two members of the state Democratic Central Committee. The suit led to a United States Supreme Court ruling that gave the state party convention the power to ignore state law in choosing the composition of the Central Committee; and
     WHEREAS, Karen was revered, and sometimes feared, for her passionate support of Democratic principles; and
     WHEREAS, Karen, a nurse by profession, understood what caring about others truly meant; and
     WHEREAS, Karen never aspired to office herself, instead devoting herself tirelessly to others who chose to run for election; and
     WHEREAS, Karen advised governors, congressional members, and party members with equal measures of intelligence, wit, and bluntness; and
     WHEREAS, Karen was taken from her family and friends far too soon after battling cancer for a number of years; and
     WHEREAS, Karen leaves behind a loving husband, Jeff Smith, and children Tom Marchioro, Kevin Marchioro, Stephen Marchioro, Ann Ystad, Joan Marchioro, Karen Johnston, and Greg Marchioro;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the many achievements and brave spirit of Karen Marchioro, whose ceaseless efforts have made a lasting mark on Washington state politics; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the family of Karen Marchioro with sincere respect and gratitude for her many contributions to the political landscape.