Oregon State Senate District 28
The state Senate and House of Representatives are responsible for making or changing laws and determining the state s budget. Thirty Senators serve in the state Senate. The size of their district is based on the number of people living there. The Oregon state Legislature meets for a long session in odd-numbered years and a short session in even-numbered years. Salary: $35,052 plus a per-diem stipend. To run for state Senate a candidate must be a U.S. citizen, age 21 or older, a registered voter, and resident in the district for at least 1 year prior to the General Election.Term: 4 years. This position is partisan.The Deschutes County League of Women Voters conducted a forum for the candidates in this race, Republicans Dave Henslee and Diane Linthicum. No Democrat filed to run. The video may be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REN4MwQZG1Y
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Dave Henslee
(Rep)
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Diane Linthicum
(Rep)
Describe your one or two most pressing issues for the 2025 legislative session. What legislation would you propose or support to address these issues?
What should the Legislature do to improve the quality of Oregon's K-12 public schools?
What role, if any, would you support for the state legislature to play in addressing income inequality in Oregon?
Town Where You Live
Merrill
Your Experience/Qualifications
Klamath County Commissioner (Chair) / Business Owner - 5H Cattle Company / Chief of Police (Ret). / Association of Oregon Counties - Public Safety & Veterans Affairs Committee, Co-Chair / National Association of Counties - Agriculture & Rural Affairs Steering Committee / 30 years of dedicated public service.
County
Klamath
Term
4 years
Term Expires
2029
My primary focus will be implementing policies that strengthen our communities and improve the lives of residents across South-Central Oregon. My campaign is centered around several key pillars, each addressing critical areas of concern:
● Exceptional public safety: As a former Klamath Falls Chief of Police, I am committed to supporting law enforcement, investing in crime prevention programs, and promoting community policing initiatives, especially in the wake of Measure 110 reform.
● Enhancing the economy while prioritizing local businesses: Fostering the growth of local businesses through targeted incentives, reducing burdensome regulations, and promoting economic development initiatives tailored to the unique needs of our region.
I am committed to improving the quality of K-12 public schools in Oregon. My approach emphasizes accountability, flexibility, and parental choice. Rather than simply throwing more money at the problem, the Legislature must prioritize reforms that empower local communities and educators to make decisions that best meet the needs of their students. My wife is a teacher of 28 years and I recognize the critical role of education in ensuring the prosperity and well-being of our state.
My perspective on addressing income inequality in Oregon is grounded in the principles of individual opportunity and free-market economics. While I acknowledge the existence of income disparities, I believe that we need to primarily focus on creating an environment that fosters economic growth and job creation rather than implementing redistributive measures. This involves reducing regulatory burdens on businesses, lowering taxes, and promoting entrepreneurship, which can stimulate investment and innovation, ultimately leading to more job opportunities and higher wages. Additionally, investing in education and workforce development programs that equip individuals with the skills needed to compete in today's economy is crucial.
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