Catherine May

Catherine May was a notable American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Washington's 4th congressional district from 1959 until 1971. As a member of the Republican Party, she made history by becoming the first woman elected to Congress from the state of Washington. Throughout her six terms in office, May was involved in various legislative efforts and served on several important committees, contributing to the political landscape of her time.

Early life and career

Catherine Dean Barnes was born on May 18, 1914, in Yakima, Washington. She pursued her education at Yakima Valley Junior College, graduating in 1934. Following this, she attended the University of Washington in Seattle, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1936 and subsequently obtained her teaching certificate in 1937. In 1939, she furthered her education at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

May's professional career began in education, where she taught English at Chehalis High School from 1937 to 1940. Her career path soon took a turn toward journalism and broadcasting, as she became the women's editor and news broadcaster for a Tacoma, Washington station in the early 1940s. From 1942 to 1943, she headed the radio department for a Seattle advertising agency, followed by a position at a Seattle insurance company from 1943 to 1944.

In 1944, May moved to New York City, where she worked as a writer and assistant commentator for the National Broadcasting Company until 1946. After returning to the Pacific Northwest, she took on the role of women's editor at station KIT in Yakima, a position she held from 1948 until 1957. In the years leading up to her political career, she worked as an office manager and medical secretary at the Yakima Medical Center in 1957 and 1958, and also served as president of Bedell Associates.

May's entry into politics began with her election to the Washington State House of Representatives, where she served from 1952 to 1958. Her political career was marked by her groundbreaking achievement as the first woman from Washington to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

House tenure

Catherine May was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1958 as a Republican, beginning her first term on January 3, 1959. She was re-elected five times, serving a total of six terms until her last term ended on January 3, 1971. During her tenure, she became known for her active participation in various legislative matters and her commitment to representing her constituents.

As a member of Congress, May was involved in several significant legislative initiatives. She served on the House Agriculture Committee, where she contributed to discussions and decisions regarding agricultural policies and issues affecting farmers and rural communities. Additionally, she held the position of ranking member of the House Beauty Shop Committee, which addressed matters related to the beauty and cosmetology industry. May was also a member of the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy, reflecting her engagement with critical issues surrounding nuclear energy and safety.

Throughout her time in office, May participated in key votes on civil rights legislation. She supported the Civil Rights Act of 1960, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Civil Rights Act of 1968, demonstrating her alignment with the legislative efforts aimed at advancing civil rights and combating discrimination. She also voted in favor of the 24th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which prohibited poll taxes in federal elections. However, she did not cast a vote on the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

In 1970, May married Donald W. Bedell, after which she became known as Catherine May Bedell. Despite her significant contributions to Congress, she was unsuccessful in her bid for re-election to the Ninety-second Congress later that year.

Legislative focus and committees

During her time in the House of Representatives, Catherine May focused on a range of issues that were pertinent to her constituents and the nation. Her involvement in the House Agriculture Committee allowed her to advocate for agricultural policies that supported farmers and rural communities in Washington state. This committee work was crucial, as agriculture has historically been a vital part of Washington's economy.

May's role as the ranking member of the House Beauty Shop Committee highlighted her interest in the beauty and cosmetology industry, a sector that affects many individuals and businesses. Her engagement in this area underscored her commitment to addressing the concerns of professionals within the beauty industry and advocating for their interests.

Her participation in the Joint Committee on Atomic Energy indicated her involvement in discussions surrounding nuclear energy, safety regulations, and related technologies. This committee was particularly significant during the Cold War era, as it dealt with issues of national security and energy policy.

May's voting record on civil rights legislation reflects her position during a transformative period in American history. By supporting several key civil rights measures, she contributed to the broader movement for equality and justice in the United States. Her votes on these critical issues positioned her as a participant in the legislative efforts aimed at dismantling systemic discrimination and promoting civil rights protections.

After leaving Congress, May continued her public service by serving on the United States International Trade Commission from 1971 to 1975 and again from 1979 to 1980. Additionally, in 1982, she worked as a Special Consultant to the President on the 50 States Project, further demonstrating her ongoing commitment to public service and civic engagement.

Catherine May passed away on May 28, 2004, in Rancho Mirage, California. Her legacy as a pioneering woman in politics and her contributions to the legislative process in the United States remain significant in the context of Washington's political history.