Born: 1962 (Madison, Wisconsin)
Biography:
Tammy Suzanne Green Baldwin (born February 11, 1962) is an American politician and lawyer who has served as the junior United States senator from Wisconsin since 2013. A member of the Democratic Party, she served three terms in the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 78th district, and from 1999 to 2013 represented Wisconsin’s 2nd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives.
Tammy Baldwin was born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin. Her mother, who unfortunately passed away in 2017, was 19 and going through a divorce when Tammy was born. As a result, Tammy was raised by her grandparents and spent Saturdays with her mother, who suffered from mental illness and opioid addiction. Despite these challenges, Tammy stayed determined and focused on her education and career.
Baldwin’s maternal grandfather, David E. Green, was a Jewish biochemist, the son of immigrants from Russia and Germany. Her maternal grandmother, who was Anglican, was English-born. Tammy’s aunt, Rowena Green Matthews, is a biochemist as well. It is worth noting that Tammy Baldwin is a third cousin of comedian Andy Samberg through her maternal grandfather.
Tammy Baldwin attended Madison West High School, where she excelled academically, ultimately graduating as the class valedictorian in 1980. She continued her education at Smith College, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1984. Baldwin then pursued her Juris Doctor degree at the University of Wisconsin Law School, which she obtained in 1989. Her strong educational background laid the foundation for her successful career in law and politics.
After completing her law degree, Tammy Baldwin worked as a lawyer in private practice from 1989 to 1992. During this time, she gained valuable experience and honed her legal skills. However, Tammy’s passion for public service led her to enter politics, and in 1986, she was elected to the Dane County Board of Supervisors at the age of 24. She served in this position until 1994, making a positive impact on her community.
In 1992, Tammy Baldwin made her first run for political office, aiming to represent Wisconsin’s 78th Assembly district in western Madison. She won the Democratic primary with 43% of the vote and went on to win the general election with an impressive margin of 59% of the vote. Baldwin’s victory was significant, as she became one of only six openly gay political candidates nationwide to win a general election in 1992.
In 1994, Tammy Baldwin was reelected to the Wisconsin State Assembly for a second term, receiving an overwhelming 76% of the vote. During her time in the assembly, she focused on championing progressive policies and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Baldwin demonstrated her commitment to public service and dedication to making a difference in the lives of her constituents.
From 1999 to 2013, Tammy Baldwin represented Wisconsin’s 2nd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives. She became the first openly LGBT woman elected to the House of Representatives, breaking barriers and paving the way for LGBTQ+ representation in American politics. Baldwin’s historic victory in 1999 was a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
In 2012, Baldwin’s political career reached new heights when she was elected to the United States Senate after defeating Republican nominee Tommy Thompson. Once again, she shattered barriers and became the first openly LGBT woman elected to the Senate. Tammy Baldwin’s election was a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights.
Throughout her career, Tammy Baldwin has been a strong advocate for progressive policies. She supports Medicare for All, LGBTQ+ rights, gun control, and opposed the Iraq War. Baldwin has consistently upheld a progressive voting record, championing causes that align with her values and the needs of her constituents. She has made significant contributions to the advancement of women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights, leaving an indelible mark on American society.