Former Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan Apologizes Over Ethics Missteps
PORTLAND, OR — Shemia Fagan, the former Secretary of State of Oregon, issued an apology on Friday and agreed to a $3,600 civil penalty following her controversial acceptance of a side job as a cannabis consultant while in office. Speaking before the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, Fagan admitted her actions were “indefensible” and expressed regret for what she termed “embarrassing mistakes” and poor judgment.
Once viewed as a rising Democratic star with aspirations for higher office, Fagan’s resignation earlier this year marked a rapid decline in her political career. A federal investigation into her role as a consultant for the cannabis company La Mota concluded without any criminal charges, and the Oregon State Bar has indicated that she is now able to resume practicing law. The ethics commission also closed its inquiry into her actions.
Initially, she negotiated a lesser fine of $1,600, but following discussions during the commission’s meeting, it was determined that the penalty needed to reflect the gravity of her position. Ultimately, the commission voted 7-1 to impose the higher fine of $3,600. Ethical concerns were raised about Fagan’s use of her position to secure private employment and additional reimbursements for family-related travel expenses.
Fagan, who previously chaired the state’s election oversight, recused herself from an audit of state cannabis regulations linked to her consulting role. Her political journey began on the David Douglas School Board, moving to the Oregon House and Senate, before becoming Secretary of State. Facing mounting pressure from party peers and Republicans, she resigned at age 41, stepping down from a role that could have placed her next in line for governorship.
Following the hearing, Fagan opted not to address the press.
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