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 labor bureau audit cites poor management for backlog of wage, civil rights claims
BOLI has historically served as a key resource for Oregonians who lack the resources for a lawyer, despite its struggle to clear a backlog of cases alleging civil rights violations and wage theft.
License plate recognition, wrongful conviction among 2026 priorities for Oregon lawmakers
Automated license reading technology has sparked controversy across the state due to concerns about data-sharing with federal immigration authorities.
Lawmakers to discuss ‘painful’ cuts for Oregon agencies under $373 million deficit
Potential cuts across state agencies could mean service reductions for Oregonians and more work for current employees.
Federal defense contractor backs out of potential Oregon Coast ICE facility
At an emotional meeting Wednesday night, Newport city leaders said they would push back against any effort to establish a local immigration detention facility.
Military housing contractor sought Newport airport lease site before ICE facility reports
A vague letter from a Texas-based defense contractor spurred concern in Newport that the federal government would seek to establish an immigration detention facility on Oregon’s Central Coast.
US Supreme Court won’t hear Oregon prison union case
Oregon is known for some of the strongest labor protections for workers in the nation, though the state does not require union membership from public employees.
Measure 114 case in Oregon Supreme Court pits gun ownership tradition against public safety concerns
Justices pressed for answers on permits and required training, which guns were available during the state’s founding and whether the court needed to conduct any historical analysis.
Oregon quietly halts noncitizen voters investigation
The Oregon Secretary of State’s office in February 2025 had referred three cases for criminal investigation to the Oregon Department of Justice.
Oregon Democrats push for charging federal agents with state law. Police say not so fast
Portland police and the Multnomah County District Attorney’s office contend a growing assertion by Democratic politicians and left-leaning legal scholars that states can arrest federal agents will not work.
Despite closures nationwide, Oregon Head Start set to remain afloat during government shutdown
The Department of Early Learning and Care is working to help Head Start programs in the state to avert closures until the end of the year during the ongoing government shutdown.