Karen Schmidt (Republican) represented the 23rd Legislative District, Kitsap County from East Bremerton to Hansville, including Silverdale, Poulsbo, Kingston and Bainbridge Island. She was originally elected in 1980 and served until her resignation in 1999 when she was named Chair, Freight Molbility Strategic Investment Board. She represented Washington state on two national transportation committees.

Representative Schmidt attended Arizona State University and worked for various airlines prior to opening her own travel agency. She was active in local civic groups, including past President of Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce.

Karen Schmidt lived on Bainbridge Island with her husband and two sons.