nd_sen_NALEWAJA
DONNA NALEWAJA
Age: 59 Born: October 3, 1939 in Winterset, Iowa Education: University of Minnesota, B.A.(1960) Military: none Family: Married - John; four children Hometown: Fargo, North Dakota Religion: Catholic Career: North Dakota State Senator (1986-present); North Dakota State Legislator (1982-1986); realtor. |
• Republican challenger Donna Nalewaja (pronounced nell-a-wa-YAH) declared her candidacy for the U.S. Senate just two weeks before the North Dakota Republican convention.
• Nalewaja got into the political arena later in life than the typical candidate. She ran for the State House of Representatives in 1982 after staying at home with her children for fourteen years and establishing a career in real estate.
• In the state legislature, her experiences led her to become a leading voice for children's and health care issues. Nalewaja fought on behalf of legislation on home health care, child care provider certification, and sexual predator registration.
• After two terms in the House, Nalewaja ran for State Senate. In Janurary, she announced would not seek another term. Nalewaja was elected as the Republican Senate Caucus Chair in 1989.
• In 1988, Nalewaja ran for Lt. Governor with Republican Gubernatorial candidate, Leon Mallberg. The ticket was soundly defeated by Democratic Gov. George Sinner.
• In high school, Nalwaja was a national-ranked target shooter.
• Nalewaja is a Polish surname.
• Donna Nalewaja is an antiques collector.