On May 12, the state of Oregon held its primary election to select nominees for the major parties ahead of the November general election. Though known as a Democratic stronghold, the races in the state remain competitive.
Governor's Race
Incumbent Governor Tina Kotek, a Democrat, is seeking a second term. She leads among nine Democratic candidates but faces challengers including a children's book author, the leader of an Indigenous nonprofit, and an inventor.
On the Republican side, state Senator Christine Drazan, who ran against Kotek in 2022, leads with 35% support. Former NBA player Chris Dudley is also in the race, alongside state Representative Ed Diehl, who led the campaign against Kotek's gas tax increase package.
Senate Race
Senator Jeff Merkley, 69, a Democrat, is running for a fourth term. His seat is considered safe, though eight Republican challengers are competing.
House and Other Races
All six of Oregon's U.S. House members are seeking reelection: five Democrats and one Republican, Cliff Bentz. Voters are also choosing nominees for the state Senate and House, as well as the nonpartisan commissioner who leads the Bureau of Labor and Industries.
Gas Tax Ballot Measure
Voters are deciding whether to repeal a gas tax increase passed by Democrats. Amid the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran pushing Oregon gas prices up 80 cents per gallon, Republicans hope to capitalize on the cost-of-living issue.
Significance and Results
Oregon holds a closed primary, meaning only voters registered with a party can participate. Just 32% of voters are Democrats, 25% are Republicans, and the rest are unaffiliated. Primaries in conservative-leaning areas like the 2nd Congressional District may reflect the level of support for former President Donald Trump within the GOP. Additionally, nearly 100 local measures funding fire departments, schools, and libraries are on the ballot.
Preliminary results are expected starting the evening of May 12 local time, but mail-in and provisional ballots will arrive after Election Day, meaning some races may take days to be officially called.
