Maria Leavey, 52; Political Consultant

After college, Ms. Leavey returned to New York, where she worked as an editor with the Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich publishing company. In 1985, she enrolled in graduate school at Pennsylvania State University, receiving a master's degree in American history in 1989.

While at Penn State, she taught history at the university and worked for local public television, where she interviewed political candidates and made a documentary on former Pennsylvania senator Harris Wofford (D). She became enthralled with the political world and developed a keen interest in emerging media, including radio and the Internet.

"She knew a lot about talk radio, which is not typical of someone on the left," Conason said.

After moving to Washington, Ms. Leavey began to book political figures for radio interviews. She joined in chat-room discussions on the Internet and impressed people with her integrity and commitment to her ideals.

"She was almost from another era, like a 1950s liberal," Conason said. "It was really refreshing. I've rarely met anybody in Washington with as much commitment."

Constantly on the telephone or e-mailing from her balky computer, Ms. Leavey seemed to have the inside dope on politics before most others.

"She knew the best gossip," said Ellen Ratner, Washington bureau chief of Talk Radio News Service. "And she was always right."

Survivors include a sister, Ann Leavey of Austin; and a brother, Andrew Leavey of Lock Haven, Pa.