When Norm Dicks recently announced he would retire from active politics at the end of his term, his political supporters became worried. They had to contend with the reality of having to do without Dicks when he ultimately makes his exit.On the other hand, his political foes have found a reason to celebrate. His political competitors have not beaten him since 1976.
He has over the past three decades held the kind of political strength that is not easy to beat. What Norm Dicks has achieved in his political career is unequalled in the history of the United States of America. In our analysis, we are going to see what exactly has shaped his political alignments.
We shall also see how his political achievements have inspired his loyalty to the Democratic Party. It is therefore important to examine his biography and know more about his life in and outside politics. Norm Dicks was born in Bremerton in December 16; 1940.
He was the son of a dock worker. He graduated in 1959 from West Bremerton High School. He proceeded to the University of Washington where he graduated in 1963 with a Bachelors degree in Arts. In 1968, Dicks graduated from the University Of Washington School Of Law.
He practised law privately for some time. He later worked under Senator Warren Magnuson. He served as a Legislative Assistant under Magnuson until 1973 when he rose to the post of Administrative Assistant. Senator Magnuson is thought to have not only inspired Norm Dicks politically but is also thought to have shaped Dicks life as a Democrat.
In 1976, Dicks tried his hand on politics after resigning from employment under Senator Magnuson.He embarked on a successful political mission for a seat in the Congress in the 6th Congressional District of the State of Washington. He has not lost the seat since.
He has served in the Congress for eighteen consecutive terms, an achievement that many Congressmen have only dreamt of. Norm Dicks has also been privileged with high appointments. Once in the Congress, Norm Dicks served in the Appropriations Committee for the House in his first term in office.
Today, Dicks is the highest rated Democrat in the Appropriations Full Committee. He is also the highest ranking Democrat in the Defense Appropriations Committee.
Norm Dicks has been involved in national security and intelligence units of the United States. He has been vocal in issues concerning arms especially on their control. He was appointed as a member to discuss arms reduction talks of the Soviet Union owing to his experience in that field.
The sixth Congressional District of Washington has certain economic activities that distinguish it from any other district. Tourism is a major economic activity in the district.
Timber is also another of its major economic activities. Norm Dicks has been involved in conservation efforts of timber through enactment of vital policies. At the same time, he has worked with federal authorities to compensate aggrieved forest workers and stakeholders.
In conclusion, we can say that the kind of leadership that Norm Dicks has offered to his voters has influenced his voting patterns. His area of representation has leaned towards the Democratic Party more than the Republican Party.