Lisa Reynolds
Candidate for:
State Senator - SD 17
What drives me to seek an elected position
As a pediatrician, I see what is and what is not working for Oregon families. I ran for office to do more for my patients than what I can accomplish in my exam room. I still see patients two days a week and it’s very grounding.
The legislature spends a lot of its time (and its money) on health care policy and the delivery of health care services, including behavioral health care. I feel that my expertise in health care provides guidance on these big issues.
Furthermore, the health and safety of children—my “day job”—is also an important priority for state government.
For all these reasons, I feel I am, and can continue to, make a difference as an Oregon state senator.
The first three priorities or issues I want to tackle
Improvement in outcomes in maternal-child care, giving a baby the very best start in life.
This includes access to quality child care, health care—both platforms of the MultCo Dems
Maintain access to health care, especially for Oregonians at risk for losing that under HR 1. This care includes physical health, behavioral health and reproductive care, including gender-affirming care. (Gender-affirming care is upheld in the MultCo Dem Values document.)
Reduce gun violence. This is explicity stated as a goal in the MultCo Dems values.
The experiences and insights I will bring to the office
I have been a pediatrician in Portland for 30 years. And, I have served in the legislature since 2021. I was a member of the Oregon House of Representatives 2021-2024, and then I was appointed to the senate in late 2024.
I am an active member of my community. I hold frequent town halls and coffees, meet 1:1 with constituents, attend neighborhood and other events and I publish a popular newsletter.
What being a Democrat in Multnomah County means to me
The values!
I am so proud to be a Democrat. Our tremendous commitment to our neighbors, especially those with less, is the basic tenet of humanity! We believe in government action to provide a strong safety net and to try to level the playing field when the deck is stacked against our neighbor or a group of Oregonians. We have a long way to go, but Democrats are committed to equity, fairness and kindness.