House Republicans have announced that former House GOP leader Christine Drazan will be returning to lead their caucus next year. Drazan previously served as House minority leader from 2019 to 2022, during which she clashed frequently with then-Speaker Tina Kotek. After an unsuccessful bid for governor, Drazan stayed out of office for two years but returned to win her district in the primary election.
In a statement, Drazan expressed her honor at being chosen again and emphasized the need for policies that prioritize the needs of Oregon families. Meanwhile, House Democrats are set to elect their leaders, with Senate Democrats having already chosen their leadership team. Senate Republicans have opted to maintain their current leadership team, citing unity and commitment to addressing important issues.
The upcoming legislative session is expected to address transportation funding and other key issues. Drazan will replace Rep. Jeff Helfrich as the minority leader, with Lucetta Elmer and Virgle Osborne serving as deputy leader and whip, respectively. Drazan’s previous tenure as minority leader was marked by a strained relationship with Kotek, but she worked more collaboratively with subsequent leaders to pass bipartisan legislation.
Democrats are still waiting on the results of a Woodburn race to determine if they will have a supermajority in the House. Drazan expressed enthusiasm for working with her Republican colleagues in the upcoming session, noting that the House Republicans are ready to get to work. Fahey, the current speaker, congratulated Drazan on her selection and expressed a willingness to collaborate with her Republican colleagues.
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