U. S. Rep. Derek Kilmer, who has served Washington's 6th Congressional District since 2013, is stepping down after six terms in Congress to become the senior vice president of U. S.

Program and Policy at The Rockefeller Foundation. His tenure has been marked by a commitment to job creation and community involvement, stemming from his own experiences witnessing economic decline in Port Angeles. Kilmer championed the RECOMPETE Act, which distributed federal grants to help economically distressed communities, resulting in about $35 million for the North Olympic Peninsula. His efforts also included securing $54 million for improvements at the Port of Tacoma and funding for affordable housing in Tacoma's Hilltop neighborhood. Kilmer's final remarks highlighted the personal sacrifices of public service and the support of his family throughout his career.

He urged constituents to engage actively with their elected officials, emphasizing that citizens are participants in democracy. As he transitions to The Rockefeller Foundation, Kilmer is poised to continue his advocacy for economic opportunity and community health. His legacy in Congress reflects a deep commitment to serving the people of his district and fostering bipartisan cooperation.