Oregon Primary Election: AP Decision Notes and What to Expect | KTAB

Oregon is gearing up for a series of hotly contested primaries on Tuesday, with key races that will shape the political landscape leading up to the November elections. One of the most closely watched contests is in Oregon’s 5th Congressional District, where Jamie McLeod-Skinner is facing off against Janelle Bynum in a high-stakes Democratic primary. McLeod-Skinner, a progressive candidate who defeated longtime Democratic Rep. Kurt Schrader in the 2022 primary, is looking to reclaim the seat she lost to Republican Lori Chavez-DeRemer in the general election.

On the other hand, Bynum, who represents Portland’s southeast suburbs in the state House, has garnered support from top Democrats, including Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek and three members of Oregon’s U.S. House delegation. The outcome of this primary will be crucial in determining the Democrats’ chances of winning back the district and potentially shifting the balance of power in the U.S. House.

Meanwhile, in the Portland-based 3rd Congressional District, a safe Democratic seat for decades, a rare opening has emerged with the retirement of Democratic Rep. Earl Blumenauer. The race features former Multnomah County Commissioner Susheela Jayapal, state Rep. Maxine Dexter, and Gresham City Councilor Eddy Morales as top Democratic contenders.

In the Republican camp, Monique DeSpain is vying to flip a Democratic seat in the 4th Congressional District, with endorsements from key party leaders. Incumbent Rep. Val Hoyle is running unopposed in the Democratic primary in the same district.

Additionally, Multnomah County is hosting a race with national implications as District Attorney Mike Schmidt faces a challenge from his own deputy, Nathan Vasquez. The winner of this nonpartisan race will be elected if they secure more than 50% of the vote.

With all eyes on Oregon’s primaries, the stage is set for a day of high-stakes political battles that will shape the future of the state and the nation. Stay tuned for the latest updates and results as the primary day unfolds.