Category Government

Oregon Senate transportation vote postponed once again in special session
A key Democrat whose support is needed to pass a state transportation funding and tax package remains hospitalized, Senate President Rob Wagner said Tuesday evening.

Legislator hits YMCA over Soraida Cross treatment
Monmouth’s Paul Evans, a Democratic state representative, says his letter early this year lambasting the Salem YMCA was not "personal" despite his personal relationship with Soraida Cross, the Keizer city councilor.

Trump Justice Department sues Oregon, Maine for not turning over voter data
Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, who vowed to fight the lawsuit, said sharing data the U.S. Department of Justice demanded would violate Oregonians’ privacy rights.

Salem city councilors hope to leverage temporary financial stability for the long term
Despite more money coming into city coffers from a property tax increase, new paid parking and the end of two Urban Renewal Areas, the city is still on a direct course for a budget deficit in its general fund by 2030. City councilors discussed Monday how to prioritize programs and services with limited resources to minimize future financial risk.

Oregon Senate Republicans replace leadership as Bonham steps down
Sen. Bruce Starr, R-Dundee, will replace Sen. Daniel Bonham, R-The Dalles, who is resigning from the Senate amid speculation about a federal job.

Oregon AG Rayfield talks federal lawsuits, consumer protection at Salem City Club
Attorney General Dan Rayfield criticized a Marion County lawsuit over Oregon's sanctuary law during a Friday speech at Salem City Club.

Councilor Vanessa Nordyke will challenge Mayor Julie Hoy in 2026 city election
Salem City Councilor Vanessa Nordyke has filed to run for mayor, challenging Julie Hoy, who’s seeking a second term. Nordyke announced her campaign on Thursday and said if she becomes mayor she will prioritize Salem’s most vulnerable and will conduct city business with more transparency and ethical conduct.

Salem city councilors hope businesses, organizations will pay for commercial air subsidies
Most Salem city councilors indicated Monday they’re unwilling to spend city funds to subsidize a new commercial airline. They’re asking city employees to seek out options for private or other government funding.

Oregon House, Senate must convene during special session pause under state constitution
Democratic leadership in both chambers did not indicate plans for any legislation other than an awaited transportation package
