Suzanne Bonamici
Candidate for:
US Representative - OR District 1
What drives me to seek an elected position
I am running for re-election to create a better future for all Oregonians. Too many people are struggling, and they rightfully expect their elected leaders to support policies that make their lives better.
We face serious and dangerous challenges as the authoritarian Trump administration attacks democracy, marginalized communities and constitutional rights. My constituents count on me to be their voice and do everything I can to defend their rights. I will continue to fight against this rogue administration and extremist Republicans on the House floor, on the streets of Portland and across NW Oregon.
I came to Congress because of my passion for public education, early childhood through higher education. With President Obama we passed the Every Student Succeeds Act to make improvements in K-12. I’m proud of my accomplishments, but there is more to do so all students have access to an excellent, well-rounded education. If I’m honored with reelection, I will continue to defend public education, protect the environment, stand up for science, defend working people, lower costs, curb inequality, fight for reproductive rights and more.
The first three priorities or issues I want to tackle
As your representative I am fighting every day against the authoritarian Trump administration, but I’m also working hard to help Democrats take back the majority in Congress. When in the majority, here are my first three priorities:
1. Costs are rising and inequality is rampant. Your tax dollars should be used to improve your lives, not make them harder. I’m leading legislation to lower costs for child care, housing, health care, higher education, gas and groceries.
2. We must undo the damage caused by the Trump administration. I have long supported the impeachment and removal of Donald Trump and will continue to work with my colleagues to hold this administration accountable for their corruption and countless crimes. ICE is terrorizing communities, ripping families apart and violating due process rights. I will work to dismantle ICE as part of comprehensive, humane immigration reform. We must rebuild the Department of Education and restore funding to other federal agencies. And we must use every diplomatic effort to end Donald Trump’s wars and restore our standing in the world.
3. Climate change is real and we must take action by expediting the transition to renewable energy. This is critical for future generations and our planet.
The experiences and insights I will bring to the office
My first job was in my mom’s small business, and I worked in retail for several years. I then worked my way through community college, college and law school. I’ve been a paralegal at Legal Aid, a consumer protection attorney, active community volunteer and state legislator. My advocacy for public education inspired my first run for office, and now I am a national leader on the Education and Science Committees. I’ve spent my career fighting for a better future for Oregonians and I’ve earned a reputation as an effective leader who is always working to improve the lives of the people I’m honored to represent.
What being a Democrat in Multnomah County means to me
Multnomah County is a unique and diverse region, and I’m proud to represent a portion of the county. I’m honored to work with many of the other amazing Multnomah County Democrats both in DC and in Oregon. Collaboration, connection and understanding are key to effective policymaking.
We have many challenges, including lack of access to affordable housing, inhumane and illegal immigration raids by ICE, economic growth and inequality and more. But we also have much to celebrate, including a re-energized urban core, Forest Park and the Arboretum and other immense natural beauty that must be protected and a strong, diverse, community-minded population.
As Multnomah County Democrats we must be bold, progressive and unapologetic. I’m looking forward to continuing the fight for justice alongside you!