Most Republican Senators Are Barred From Re-election in Oregon After Walkouts
In 2022, Oregon voters approved an initiative to prohibit lawmaker walkouts, a tactic used by Republicans to stall bills on climate policy, taxes, and abortion. Under the new rule, lawmakers with 10 unexcused absences during a legislative session are barred from re-election. Some lawmakers, including Senate Minority Leader Tim Knopp, challenged the new rules, but the State Supreme Court upheld their constitutionality, preventing these lawmakers from running in the next election. Six will be left off this year’s ballot, with four others barred from the 2026 election. The decision comes ahead of Oregon’s new legislative session which includes homelessness, housing, reducing crime, and strengthening schools among the top priorities.
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