Helfrich to stay in Senate District 26 race

THE GORGE — Rep. Jeff Helfrich (R-Hood River) has announced his commitment to staying in the race for Senate District 26 following Sen. Christine Drazan’s decision to declare for the gubernatorial race.

As previously reported by Columbia Gorge News, Drazan was selected to fill Oregon’s Senate District 26 seat, vacated by Sen. Daniel Bonham, during an Oct. 23 vote of four county commissions. She announced her bid to run as governor four days later, on Oct. 27.

“I have been committed to representing the people of Senate District 26 since February, when I announced, and with the seat still being open, I continue on that path,” Helfrich said in a press release. “My entire career has been dedicated to serving my country and my communities.”

Helfrich served four years in the U.S. Air Force and deployed to Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He has continued his public service for more than 25 years as a police officer with the Portland Police Bureau and on local boards.

“The people of House District 52 have seen fit to make me their voice in Salem,” he said. “I hope to earn that privilege from the people of Senate District 26. They deserve steady representation, based on strong conservative principles.”

Helfrich has received a number of endorsements, including those from former Sen. Chuck Thomsen (R-Hood River 2011-2023) and Wasco County Commissioner Scott Hege.

“I’ve known Jeff for many years now, and he has always been a strong advocate for our community,” Thomsen said. “I know the work done in the Senate, and I know he will do a great job for us there.”

“Jeff is a proven leader who gets things done for the district,” Hege said. “We desperately need someone in that seat who can deliver for us day in and day out, and Jeff has proven he can.”

Helfrich said his law enforcement experience has shaped his approach to legislating.

 “As a police officer, you arrive on the scene of a problem and must find a solution,” he said. “It isn’t always obvious, but it’s there. I also firmly believe that if you aren’t at the table, you are on the menu. I look to continue my results-driven approach, and look forward to earning the support of Senate District 26.”

Bonham, the Senate’s former Republican leader, resigned Sept. 15. According to a notice on the U.S. Senate’s Executive Calendar, the Trump administration selected him as an assistant labor secretary, but Bonham has not publicly addressed his future plans.