Dave Drotzmann, a small business owner, Hermiston mayor, and president-elect of the League of Oregon Cities Board of Directors, has announced that he will run for Oregon State Senate District 29.

“This dynamic rural district deserves representation in Salem that understands not only the challenges ahead but the opportunities to build on our unique strengths through our core values,” said Drotzmann. “Senator Hansell has been a strong voice for the region, and with his pending retirement, I believe I have the experience and abilities necessary to strengthen relationships and advocate for each of District 29’s counties and communities.”

Drotzmann says he will focus on making sure state government is accountable for every dollar it spends, which will allow Oregonians to afford everyday expenses in the face of record inflation and incentivize private businesses to invest in their employees. He says he will also stand firm on his conservative principles of lower taxes, safer communities, and protecting Second Amendment rights and the right to life.

Drotzmann moved to Eastern Oregon in 1998 when he started Lifetime Vision Source in Hermiston as the sole optometrist and has since grown the business to more than a dozen employees and three optometrists. During his 25 years in the community, Drotzmann served in elected office 8 years on the Hermiston School Board and the past 10 years as Hermiston’s mayor.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

“As a business owner, mayor, and father, I’ve seen first-hand how policies and tax spending decisions in Salem too often overlook rural Oregonians,” Drotzmann said. “I will advocate for a common-sense state budget that keeps dollars in pockets of Oregonians by cutting back bloated and ineffective state programs, invest in the responsible use of our region’s natural resources to create family-wage jobs, and protect the constitutional rights of every Oregonian.”

In 2018, Drotzmann was appointed to the League of Oregon Cities Board of Directors to advocate for cities, focusing on providing the tools and local control necessary for communities to set and reach their own goals for growth and development. As president-elect he states that he is working to understand the issues facing cities of all sizes and connect with leaders across the state to help bridge divides and find solutions.

Republican leaders are already voicing their support for Drotzmann. He begins his campaign with endorsements from Rep. Greg Smith (R-Heppner) and U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer.

“Dave’s experience both as an Optometric Physician and Mayor of Hermiston has made him an outstanding advocate for Northeast Oregon and he will continue to demonstrate his leadership and wisdom as State Senator,” said Rep. Smith.

Those interested can find more information on his campaign website.


--Ben Fisher

Post Date: 2023-08-14 11:52:30

Last Update: 2023-09-16 16:29:33