U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley Announces 2026 Reelection Campaign for Oregon Senate Seat

PORTLAND, Ore. – On July 10, 2025, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, Oregon’s junior senator since 2009, announced he will seek a fourth term in the 2026 election. The Democratic senator, known for his focus on issues like housing, climate policy, and government reform, made the announcement amid a politically charged national landscape, emphasizing his commitment to serving Oregonians.

A Longtime Oregon Public Servant Born in Myrtle Creek, Oregon, in 1956, Merkley grew up in a working-class family and has lived in East Multnomah County for much of his life. His political career began in the Oregon House of Representatives, where he served from 1999 to 2009, including as Speaker from 2007 to 2008.

During his time in the state legislature, he worked on policies like establishing a state rainy-day fund and addressing predatory lending practices. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2008 after defeating Republican incumbent Gordon Smith, Merkley has since focused on issues like affordable housing, environmental protection, and reducing the influence of money in politics.

His legislative efforts include bills to limit corporate purchases of residential properties and reform the Senate filibuster process. He also serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, where he advocates for funding priorities affecting Oregon, such as environmental programs and rural development.

Campaign Announcement and Key Issues In his announcement, Merkley highlighted his work to address economic challenges, protect democratic institutions, and promote policies that benefit working families.

He referenced concerns about national political trends, including what he describes as threats to checks and balances under President Donald Trump’s administration. “My focus remains on delivering for Oregon—whether it’s fighting for affordable housing, tackling climate change, or ensuring our government works for everyone,” Merkley said in a statement.

His campaign website, www.jeffmerkley.com, emphasizes grassroots support and rejects corporate PAC contributions, a stance Merkley has maintained throughout his Senate tenure. Recent legislative efforts include a 2025 bill to reauthorize the Deschutes River Conservancy Working Group and another to create an affordable student loan repayment plan. He has also pushed for restrictions on M-44 “cyanide bombs” used in wildlife management, citing environmental and safety concerns.

Political Landscape in Oregon Oregon, a state that has leaned Democratic in recent decades, last elected a Republican senator in 2002. Merkley’s 2020 reelection, where he won 57% of the vote against Republican Jo Rae Perkins, suggests he remains a strong contender in a state that aligns with his policy priorities.

His announcement has clarified the field for 2026, as several Oregon Democrats, including Representatives Andrea Salinas, Suzanne Bonamici, Maxine Dexter, and Janelle Bynum, as well as Secretary of State Tobias Read, had been rumored as potential candidates. Salinas has already expressed support for Merkley’s reelection.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead Merkley’s campaign will unfold against a backdrop of national debates over economic policy, climate change, and governance. His annual town halls in all 36 Oregon counties—over 500 since taking office—have kept him connected to constituents, allowing him to hear directly about local concerns like housing costs and infrastructure needs.

Critics, however, point to his progressive stances, such as his support for filibuster reform and Medicare for All, as potentially polarizing in a closely divided Senate. As the 2026 election approaches, Merkley’s campaign will likely focus on his record of advocating for Oregon-specific issues while navigating broader national challenges.

His announcement signals a commitment to continue his work in the Senate, where he has built a reputation as a steady voice for his state. Voters will ultimately decide whether to send him back to Washington for another six years.