Oregon House Republicans have chosen a new leader.
On Wednesday, the caucus elected Rep. Lucetta Elmer of McMinnville to lead the 23 member body. The previous leader, Rep. Christine Drazan of Canby has her sights set on the Senate – she intends to seek appointment to Sen. Daniel Bonham’s seat after he steps down this month.
Two House Republicans said Wednesday night that Rep. Emily McIntire of Eagle Point was the other candidate to replace Drazan.
In a news release, Elmer wrote that she’s honored to take the post. Elmer has been deputy leader of the House Republican Caucus since 2024.
“I commit to leading with strength, respect and diplomacy, ensuring that the voices of all Oregonians are represented,” she wrote in a statement.
Elmer grew up on a farm in Yamhill County and earned an education degree from Linfield University. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2022 and emerged this year as a vocal advocate of limiting Democrats’ efforts to allow striking workers to collect unemployment.
Republicans elected Rep. Alek Skarlatos of Winston as the deputy leader of the caucus.