The Honorable Constance A. Morella

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.