Nine candidates are running in the Democratic primary for Oregon’s 3rd Congressional District on May 21, 2024. Three lead in media attention, endorsements, and fundraising: Maxine Dexter (D), Susheela Jayapal (D), and Eddy Morales (D).
This is the first open race in the district since 1996. Incumbent Earl Blumenauer is retiring from public office. As of March 26, 2024, The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter and Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rated the general election Solid Democratic. Larry J. Sabato’s Crystal Ball rated the general election Safe Democratic. These ratings indicate it is likely that the candidate who wins the Democratic primary will also win the general election.
Dexter is a member of the Oregon House of Representatives and a pulmonary and critical care physician. Dexter said her legislative experience would help her successfully fight for the district in Congress: “I have proven myself to be a strong lawmaker who listens, leads and gets hard things done, all the while keeping my constituents at the center of my decisions – the same way I do when caring for my patients.” Oregon House Speaker Julie Fahey and Senate President Rob Wagner endorsed Dexter.
Jayapal is a former Multnomah County Commissioner and an attorney. Jayapal said that in Congress, she would continue her work at the county level, such as “addressing the homelessness crisis, public safety, [and] wages for front line workers.” Jayapal said she also wants to address broader issues such as “standing up for democracy.” U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Democratic U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez(Ill.-03) endorsed Jayapal.
Morales is the Council President for the City of Gresham and a community organizer. Morales said he is running to “build on Congressman Earl Blumenauer’s legacy and bring fresh progressive energy and vision to this community that I love.” Former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams and the Human Rights Campaign endorsed Morales.
Also running in the primary are Ricky Barajas (D), Nolan Bylenga (D), Jeremiah Campion(D), Theodore Gwynn (D), Michael Jonas (D), and Rachel Rand (D).
