Rob Wagner, the Democratic president of the Oregon Senate, is seeking reelection to represent District 19. The official November ballot lists Republican Mary Dirksen as his opponent.

Asked why he is running, Wagner said in our questionnaire: "I'm seeking re-election to the State Senate because Oregon is home. I grew up here and raised my four kids here, and I want to keep doing the work of making our state a place where families can thrive—with strong schools, good jobs, safe communities, accessible health care, affordable housing, and a healthy environment for future generations."

Candidate information

Party: Democratic

Education: Wagner said in our questionnaire: "Lake Oswego High School; B.A., Portland State University; master's degree in Public Policy, George Washington University."

Family: Wagner said in our questionnaire: "My wife, Laurie, and I have four children. I grew up in this community, and we raised our family here."

Family in government: Asked whether anyone in his family works in politics or government, Wagner said: "Yes. Both of my sisters are public school teachers."

Experience and public service

Wagner said in our questionnaire that he was "previously Senate Majority Leader; and former member of the Lake Oswego School Board."

Asked about his occupation and work history, Wagner said in our questionnaire: "I currently serve as President of the Oregon Senate. Before joining the Legislature, I was an Associate Vice President at Portland Community College, overseeing community outreach and the PCC Foundation."

On the issues

Asked what accomplishments show he can handle the job, Wagner said in our questionnaire: "As Senate President, I've helped lead a Senate where more than 90% of legislation has passed with bipartisan support, while making major investments in K-12 and higher education and tackling housing and economic development. I delivered the state investment in the Moda Center to keep the Blazers and Fire in Portland and I led the fight to open Willamette Falls for generations to come."

Asked about critical differences between himself and his opponent, Wagner said in our questionnaire: "I'll let my opponent provide her own statements. I believe Oregon should invest in public education, housing, health care, infrastructure, public safety, and climate resilience while protecting reproductive freedom and constitutional rights."

Wagner's campaign priorities page lists "$3 million to help Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East to purchase two properties for affordable housing units in Lake Oswego and SW Portland."

Asked for the best advice he has received, Wagner said in our questionnaire: "Listen first. My door is always open. Good ideas can come from anywhere. And there's always time for kindness."

Responses are based on public data and answers to a Surround Sound Media questionnaire if they were provided.