Shaanth Nanguneri - Oregon Capital Chronicle
Shaanth Kodialam Nanguneri is a reporter based in Salem, Oregon covering Gov. Tina Kotek and the Oregon Legislature. He grew up in the Bay Area, California and went on to study at UCLA, reporting for the Daily Bruin until graduating in March 2025. Previously, he was a reporting intern covering criminal justice and health for CalMatters in Sacramento, California. He is always eager to tell stories that illuminate how complex and intricate policies from state government can help shape the lives of everyday Oregonians.
Oregon lawmakers pushed to secure sensitive data from ICE. How does the law work?
Lawmakers watered down their original legislation that sought to limit immigration enforcement's access to data. The new law focuses on data handled by state agencies.
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Kotek’s prosperity council pushes for lower taxes, fewer regulations
The highly-anticipated proposal of ways to jumpstart Oregon's economic development came in response to Gov. Tina Kotek’s push for more economic development in the state last year.
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Oregon appeals court sides with OPB in case over public corrections records requests
The decision centered on whether public records compiled for regular business can be blocked from disclosure if they wind up in criminal investigations.
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Facing scorching summers, Oregon lawmakers may revisit heat pump expansion programs
Heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular technology for Oregonians seeking an efficient method of air conditioning, though data shows the state has experienced significant gaps in AC access.
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Oregon health officials issue tougher air quality guidance for youth sports, outdoor activities
After seeing an early start to Oregon's wildfire season this year, the state's health authority updated its guidance for staying safe outside when air quality is affected by wildfires and pollutants.
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Oregon resists court order for housing trans prisoners amid federal pressure
Oregon attorneys are opposing a recent federal court order that could lead to more transgender women being housed in the state’s only women’s prison.
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No undercover license plates for ICE, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek orders
Gov. Tina Kotek’s directive followed the Trump administration suing the state last week over the issue.
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Drazan holds strong lead in Republican primary for governor
State Sen. Christine Drazan is leading the race to be the Republican candidate in the gubernatorial race against incumbent Gov. Tina Kotek in November.
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Lawsuit alleges Oregon State Police violated sanctuary laws by sharing data with feds
Federal immigration authorities have accessed state databases 1.4 million times, according to a suit filed by the Rural Organizing Project.
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Oregon AG Rayfield, Gov. Kotek open to updating sanctuary laws after Marion County courthouse arrest
Other states have considered or given their attorneys general more power to enforce bans on courthouse arrests by immigration agents.
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