The Honorable Constance A. Morella
As a Republican in a swing district, Connie A. Morella worked closely with Members on both sides of the aisle to serve her diverse constituency. Morella walked a fine political line between meeting the demands of her district and following the direction of Republican leadership, all while drawing national attention to women’s health and domestic violence.
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U.S. Representative from Maryland (January 3, 1987-January 3, 2003)
With her teaching background and a strong record of community activism, Constance A. (Connie) Morella made a smooth transition into the political realm. Morella served on the Montgomery County (Maryland) commission for women and in the Maryland general assembly before winning a seat in the House. As a Republican Congresswoman representing a swing district in close proximity to Washington, D.C., Morella sought to balance the demands of her constituents with the Republican Leadership—especially after her party gained control of the House in 1995.
In her oral history, Morella discusses the special bond that emerged among many of the women Members who served in Congress during her tenure. She explains the importance of the Congresswomen’s Caucus, which she co-chaired, in bringing attention to issues like women’s health and domestic abuse. Morella speaks of the role of gender in her campaigns and described how she believed in representing all women, not just those residing in her district. Known for her attentive constituent service, Morella’s committee assignments (Science, Government Reform, and Post Office and Civil Service), along with chairing two subcommittees, allowed her to advocate on a range of key issues for her district.
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Equal Rights Amendment
The Double Standard
"That Gal's Got Spunk"
Campaign Decisions
"Connie"
"I Wasn't Supposed to Win"
Excluded from Appropriations
"Out of the Box"
"Work a Little Harder"
"Strong Women"
Moving in the Right Direction
Women Leaders
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