Rob Wagner: Rob Wagner originally entered the Oregon Capitol as an intern for a Portland Democrat. Wagner will become Senate president in January when Gov. Kate Brown leaves office. Wagner, the Senate’s Democratic leader, had a convoluted path to the top seat. Wagner claims he worked for at least two weeks as a Senate intern, however, Brown maintains he barely lasted a day.
Rob Wagner Is Getting Ready To Become The First New Senator From Oregon Since 2003
Wagner attended George Washington University for her master’s degree in public policy after graduating from Portland State University. In 2002, the Lake Oswego native returned to Oregon as the AFT’s political director.
After weeks of difficult negotiations, 15 Democrats and 15 Republicans chose Salem Democrat Peter Courtney to be the next Senate President. Courtney’s 20-year tenure as Senate President comes to an end in January. “‘Did you ever believe in 2003, when you were in your first term working for AFT, that you’d be Senate president?'” Wagner had no idea his career would take this turn.
Wagner stated that it is difficult for him to fill Courtney’s shoes. His demeanour is more reserved than Courtney’s, and he prefers to listen rather than speak in the role. “Every day, I learn something new, and the smartest people in the state are eager to teach me,” he said. If you’re open to it, it’s intriguing.
After weeks of difficult negotiations, 15 Democrats and 15 Republicans chose Salem Democrat Peter Courtney to be the next Senate President. Courtney’s 20-year tenure as Senate President comes to an end in January. “Did you ever believe in 2003, when you were in your first term working for AFT, that you’d be Senate president?'” Wagner had no idea his career would take this turn.
Wagner stated that it is difficult for him to fill Courtney’s shoes. His demeanour is more reserved than Courtney’s, and he prefers to listen rather than speak in the role. “Every day, I learn something new, and the smartest people in the state are eager to teach me,” he said. If you’re open to it, it’s intriguing.
“The fundamental to any legislative partnership is that everyone’s perspective is heard, and Senator Courtney established a reputation for trust and honesty, as well as for ensuring the minority voice was heard and respected,” Knopp said. Wagner hasn’t had time to develop that.
Wagner stated that Senate Democrats, like incoming Gov. Tina Kotek and the House Democratic majority, will prioritise housing, homelessness, mental health, and addiction. Other difficult issues must also be addressed by the Legislature.
The state does not have enough public defenders to represent indigent defendants. When the Joint Emergency Board approved a $10 million infusion to the state’s public defender agency in November, 800 people were without representation and judges were dismissing cases. The Oregon-Washington I-5 Bridge will also be considered for replacement by the legislature. The cost of a new bridge increased in December from $3.2 billion to $4.8 billion in 2020.
Rob Wagner prepares to take over as Oregon’s first new Senate president since 2003 https://t.co/67jvl7Sh7z
— The Oregonian (@Oregonian) January 4, 2023
Last year, Washington lawmakers expected Oregon to contribute $1 billion. Arguments over transit and pedestrian access, cost, and tolls, which are common in Washington but not in Oregon, have erupted at Oregon Transportation Commission meetings and will almost certainly dominate legislative time this year.
Due to a new voter-approved statute, Wagner may avoid the legislative walkouts that plagued Courtney in 2019, 2020, and 2021. The Oregon Constitution requires a quorum of 20 senators and 40 representatives, so if discussions fail, the minority can shut down the Legislature.
“I believe the voters made it clear that they want people to show up to work and do their jobs,” Wagner said. I’m confident it won’t be, but it’s about meeting people where they are, getting involved, and allowing them to discuss difficult topics. I’m looking forward to the upcoming legislative session.
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