Hermiston Mayor Dave Drotzmann on Thursday, Sept. 14, filed for election in Oregon State Senate District 29 to replace Sen. Bill Hansell, who is retiring after this term.
Drotzmann is also an optometrist and owner of Lifetime Vision Source, 1160 W Elm Ave., as well as president-elect of the League of Oregon Cities Board of Directors.
According to a campaign press release, Drotzmann has received endorsements from community leaders across the district who are “eager to see him bring proactive and engaged leadership to Salem” since his campaign began in June.
“Each community has its unique challenges, but as rural Oregonians we face the same big issues of quality of life and local control that need a strong advocate in the Legislature,” he said. “I’ve greatly enjoyed the opportunity to talk with people about what they want from their representation, and it comes down to holding state government accountable to ensure our tax dollars are spent wisely, our communities are empowered to meet their goals and our values are protected. I am grateful to everyone who has endorsed and supported me.”
Endorsements include U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer, State Rep. Greg Smith, former State Sen. David Nelson, current and former County Commissioners Dan Dorran (Umatilla County), George Murdock (Umatilla County), Bill Elfering (Umatilla County), Roy Drago (Morrow County), Marv Padberg (Morrow County), David Sykes (Morrow County), Jeff Wenholz (Morrow County), Don Russell (Morrow County) and John Lamoreau (Union County).
“I’ve worked with Dave on a number of complex issues, and he has always advocated for positive growth and opportunity for his constituents,” Dorran said. “His leadership is exactly what we need in Salem to ensure rural values and voices are heard.”
According to the release, Drotzmann plans to focus on ensuring the state government is accountable for every dollar it spends, which will allow Oregonians to afford everyday expenses in the face of record inflation and incentivize private businesses to invest in their employees.
“He will also stand firm on his conservative principles of lower taxes, safer communities and protecting Second Amendment rights and the right to life,” the release states.
According to the Oregon Secretary of State website, Jim E. Doherty, of Boardman; Andy B. Huwe, of Enterprise; and Todd Nash, of Enterprise, have also filed for the May 21, 2024, Republican primary.
Find information about Drotzmann’s campaign, visit www.DrotzmannForOregon.com.
“He will also stand firm on his conservative principles of lower taxes, safer communities and protecting Second Amendment rights and the right to life,” the release states.
He also says he is non-partisan. Unlikely when you only tick MAGA hot buttons.