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 Gov. Kotek sends $5 million to food banks ahead of SNAP cutoff
Food banks across Oregon have warned that they do not have enough resources to absorb the impact of food benefits not going out Nov. 1.
Republican Christine Drazan mounts 2026 bid for Oregon governor
Former House Republican Leader Christine Drazan narrowly lost to Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek in a three-way race in 2022.
Oregon gun law case awaits Supreme Court hearing
Oregon's highest court will take up Measure 114, the 2022 voter-approved ballot measure banning high capacity magazines and requiring firearm permits. The U.S. Supreme Court may soon hear a challenge to a similar California law.
Rep. Christine Drazan fills seat of former Senate Republican leader amid local support
The Canby representative emphasized that Bonham had endorsed her for the position before his resignation for a job in the Trump administration.
ICE promised doxing cases against Portland ‘anarchists.’ Months later, no charges filed
The lack of follow-through could be a reflection of the First Amendment concerns most doxing laws and charges pose, legal experts say.
Oregon lawmaker floats legislative special session in response to Trump immigration crackdown
Rep. Ricki Ruiz, D-Gresham, made his comments on a panel with speakers who blasted a “reckless mass deportation agenda.”
Trump picks former Oregon state senator for labor department role
Sen. Daniel Bonham, R-The Dalles, is poised to take over as assistant secretary for congressional and intergovernmental affairs in the U.S. Department of Labor.
State lawmakers weigh action after Covid vaccine access delays
Oregon took nearly two weeks longer than Washington to ensure broad Covid vaccine access for those who want it this fall.
Federal government probes Oregon in faith-based push against LGBTQ+ foster policy
“We want to roll out the red carpet and welcome faith-based families to participate in our child welfare system,” said an official with the U.S. Health and Human Services Department.
Federal appeals court backs dismissal of religious challenge to Oregon Covid testing rule
A former employee at a hospital in The Dalles lost her case alleging that nasal swab testing for Covid violated her Christian faith.