Jamie McLeod-Skinner Enters Race for Oregon’s 5th Congressional District

BEND, Ore. -- Democrat Jamie McLeod-Skinner launched her 2024 campaign for Oregon’s Fifth Congressional District (OR-05) today to defeat Republican Rep. Lori Chavez Deremer.

“Oregonians want leaders who rise above partisan bickering to get the job done. Congress needs to focus on the basics -- helping working people and small business owners make ends meet while protecting our democracy, our environment, our communities, and our fundamental rights. Oregonians want to be able to put a roof over our heads, food on our tables, opportunities for our kids, and healthcare for our families, and I’ve dedicated my career to this type of service. I believe in accountability to Oregonians, not corporate PACs. And I’ll work with anyone to make government work for people,” said McLeod-Skinner.

Raised by a single mom when she was young, Jamie worked her way through college and became an engineer, an attorney, a public servant and a small business owner. Jamie led recovery efforts after the devastating wildfires in Oregon and she currently works in emergency preparedness, affordable housing and as a leader in protecting Oregon's watersheds.

In support of McLeod-Skinner, Kevin Easton, Democratic candidate for OR-05, is suspending his campaign.

“I am suspending my campaign for Congress in OR-05 to support and endorse Jamie McLeod-Skinner.

"She came incredibly close to winning this race last year and has built a winning team. The math, money and momentum are all on her side to achieve a Democratic victory. We share common values and she will give Central Oregonians a seat at the table and I will be proud to stand next to her as our first openly LGBTQ+ member of Congress from Oregon,” said Kevin Easton, former Democratic candidate for OR-05.

“Jamie McLeod-Skinner has built a strong base of support in urban and rural areas because she shows up, listens and understands the needs of communities large and small. She is the calm voice in the room that gets things done. Her experience with affordable housing, emergency preparedness, protecting our watersheds, and supporting working families is critical for Oregonians,” said Jan Lee, former state legislator representing parts of Clackamas County.

If elected, McLeod-Skinner would make history as Oregon's first openly LGBTQ+ member of Congress.