President Barack Obama has nominated Jenny Durkan, a close associate of Gov. Chris Gregoire and a friend who helped defeat the 2004 gubernatorial election court challenge, to be the top federal prosecutor in Western Washington.

Durkan, 51, is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and the University of Washington Law School. Her father, the late Martin Durkan, was a Democratic state senator.

“This group of men and women have distinguished themselves as fair, tenacious and respected attorneys throughout their careers in both public and private service,” Obama said in a statement announcing six picks for U.S. attorneys.  “They will serve their country with distinction as US Attorneys and it is my honor to nominate them for these esteemed positions.”

Gregoire said she was pleased, and hopes the Senate quickly confirms Durkan.

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