Jeff Merkley will assume the post of Senator Gordon Smith at the U.S. Senate following his successful bid in the 2008 elections.CNN: U.S. Senate Oregon Prior to his victory, Merkley has been a member of the Oregon House of Representatives and serves as its Speaker.
Political Career
- 1998-2008: Representative, Oregon State House of Representatives
- 2003: Democratic Leader, Oregon State House of Representatives
- 2007-2008: Speaker of the House, Oregon State House of Representatives
Race Against Senator Smith
Although Senator Gordon Smith has attempted to associate himself with Barack Obama in his campaign ads, Obama supports Merkley and appeared in a campaign ad endorsing Merkley.
References
Fast Facts
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Full Name
Jeffrey Alan Merkley
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Born
October 24, 1956
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Birthplace
Myrtle Creek, Oregon
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Assumed office
1999
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Party
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Opponent
Senator Gordon Smith (Republican)
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Spouse
Mary Sorteberg
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Alma mater
Stanford University (1979), Princeton University (1982)
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Previous positions held
Presidential Management Fellow, Office of the Secretary of Defense (1982); Budget and Policy Analyst, Congressional Budget Office; Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity in Portland (1991); Board of Trustees, World Affairs Council of OregonWorld Oregon: Board of Trustees (2007-2008)
