02.08.01

Senator Cantwell Hires Communications Director

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) has hired Larry West of Seattle to be her communications director. West, 48, who was Cantwell's congressional press secretary during her 1993-1994 term in the House of Representatives, was public affairs director for the Port of Seattle and has worked as a Microsoft public relations manager for the past three years. At Microsoft, he served as managing editor for several key Web sites, including PressPass, the company's premier Web site for the news media.

"Along with great communication skills, Larry has hands-on experience with issues important to Washington state, such as aviation, high-technology, transportation and international trade," Cantwell said. "I've known Larry for about 12 years; he has a real passion for public service. I know he will be a valuable addition to my staff, and an asset to the people of our state. I'm looking forward to working with him again."

Before joining Microsoft in 1998, West spent two years as public affairs director for the Port of Seattle, where he served on the senior management team and directed all of the Port's media relations, government affairs and community outreach activities. West spent 19 years at The Seattle Times and later founded a successful public affairs consulting business before agreeing to serve as Cantwell's congressional press secretary in the 103rd Congress. After leaving Capitol Hill, West spent a year as a public affairs manager and speechwriter at the Federal Aviation Administration in Washington, D.C., before joining the Port of Seattle in 1996.

Cantwell said that West is expected to join her staff by late March or early April, after he completes his transition from Microsoft.