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.
