Gordon Smith is the junior Republican Senator from Oregon. In his 2008 re-election campaign, Smith is facing a strong challenge from Oregon Speaker of the House Jeff Merkley.Online NewsHour: Oregon Republican Smith Struggling to Defend Senate Seat (November 3, 2008)
Fast Facts:
- Born: May 25, 1952 in Pendleton, Oregon
- Party: Republican
- Running for re-election in 2008
- Opponent: Jeff Merkley
- Spouse: Sharon Smith
- Alma Mater: Brigham Young University
- Assumed Office: January 7, 1997
- Former Profession: Lawyer
- First elected to Senate in 1996
2008 Campaign
A moderate Republican, Smith has highlighted in campaign advertisements Obama's support for some of his policies. Despite Smith's attempt to associate himself with Obama, the Senator faces an uphill battle in the polls, most of which show him trailing challenger Merkley.Online NewsHour: Oregon Republican Smith Struggling to Defend Senate Seat (November 3, 2008)
Positions
Before his career in politics, Smith worked as a law clerk at the New Mexico Supreme Court, he was also the President of Smith Frozen Foods, and served on the Oregon State Senate from 1992-1997.
Featured Video
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging
- Committee Site: Ranking member, Gordon Smith
U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs
- Committee Site: Republicans: Gordon Smith
