Six Democrats Challenge U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz in Oregon's 2nd District Primary
In Oregon's 2nd Congressional District, six Democratic candidates are competing in the May primary to challenge the incumbent Republican U.S. Representative Cliff Bentz. The district, which spans over 70,000 square miles and includes 20 of Oregon's 36 counties, has been a Republican stronghold since 1981. The Democratic candidates, many of whom are first-time contenders, are motivated by dissatisfaction with the Trump administration and Bentz's perceived lack of responsiveness. The candidates include Chris Beck, a former state representative; Mary Doyle, a public school teacher; Rebecca Mueller, a pediatrician; Peter Quince, a retired technical writer; Dawn Rasmussen, a career services business owner; and Patty Snow, a former small business owner. Each candidate brings a unique background and set of priorities, ranging from healthcare and education to economic reform and environmental protection.