Oregon Senator Ron Wyden, who has been in Congress for over 50 years, says he plans to seek re-election in 2028 and continue to resist President Trump’s policies. Despite pressure from some Democrats to step aside, Wyden claims he is still up to the job and intends to keep engaging with voters across Oregon.
Wyden, 79, has been a vocal critic of Trump’s administration and has traveled extensively throughout the state, holding town halls in all 36 counties every year. His efforts have earned him praise from some Democrats, who see him as a model for how to connect with voters despite party divisions.
“We’ve consistently called for all elected officials over the age of 70 to make this their final term,” said Amanda Litman, co-founder and president of Run for Something, a group that supports progressive young candidates. “I think competitive primaries are how we as a party decide what we believe.”
However, Wyden’s commitment to holding town halls has also been seen as a counterpoint to the increasingly divisive nature of politics. In Sherman County, where nearly 75% of voters supported Trump last November, the small town hall gathering was marked by civility and civil discourse.
Wyden cited examples of his efforts to push back against Trump, including recent trips to Canada and discussions with Oregon wheat farmers about tariffs. He also expressed concerns about the erosion of checks and balances in government, citing instances where the administration has ignored court orders.
As he continues to pursue the Epstein records, Wyden emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in government. “The old saying is, ‘most of life is just showing up,'” he said. “But it’s especially important in government because there is a sense that this is rigged.”
Despite pressure from some Democrats, Wyden shows no signs of stepping aside. He plans to continue engaging with voters and working towards a more results-oriented approach to government, one that prioritizes the commonsense and accountability that he believes are essential for effective governance.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/wyden-senate-oregon-trump-democrats-2bacdf8cf27c4f2531d02276e2733ae7