[4] Roukema began her career as a high school American history teacher in Ridgewood, New Jersey.

[3][4] In 1978, Roukema ran for Congress against incumbent Democratic Congressman Andrew Maguire, losing by approximately 9,000 votes.

In 1980, Roukema challenged Maguire again and won; her campaign was helped by successful Republican presidential candidate Ronald Reagan's presence at the top of the ticket.

[4] Roukema was a moderate Republican[6] known for her staunch support for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

[8] With the prospect of a third consecutive primary challenge from Garrett in 2002 (in a district made even more conservative on paper by redistricting), as well as facing the loss of her subcommittee chairs due to caucus term limits, the Ridgewood Republican opted not to seek a 12th term and retired from politics.