Sen. Bruce Starr of Dundee will take over as the leader of Oregon’s Senate Republicans, the caucus announced in a Monday news release.
Starr replaces Sen. Daniel Bonham, from The Dalles, who has led the caucus for the past year.
Bonham announced Monday that he’s resigning in October, though his term doesn’t end until January 2027. He did not specify his next steps, though some Oregon Republicans have speculated that he will take a job with the federal government, the Oregon Capital Chronicle reported.
“I couldn’t be more confident in Senator Starr stepping in as our new Leader,” Bonham said in a statement. “Bruce is steady, experienced, and committed to fighting for Oregonians. I know this caucus will continue moving forward with focus and purpose.”
Starr returned to Salem this year after a decadelong break from the Capitol. He was a member of the House of Representatives, then a senator, in the period from 1999 to 2014.
“It is humbling, and an honor, to be chosen among my Senate Republican colleagues to serve as minority leader,” Starr wrote in a statement. “Oregon is at a crossroads and we know the solvency and viability of our state depends on our ability to achieve electoral and policy victories for Oregonians.”
A caucus spokesperson did not immediately reply to questions about when the leadership change will take effect.
“Serving in the Oregon Senate has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Bonham said in a statement about his resignation. “I never set out to be a politician — I just wanted to serve my community, and I’ll always be grateful for the trust they placed in me. I’m excited about my future, but I’ll miss the day-to-day work alongside my colleagues in Salem.”
Bonham endorsed Canby Republican Christine Drazan, who is currently the minority leader in the House of Representatives, to be appointed to his position in the Senate. Hood River Rep. Jeff Helfrich, also a Republican, announced earlier this year that he intends to campaign for Bonham’s seat.
Senators are expected back in Salem on Wednesday to vote on a transportation package following a two week delay in a special session that began on Aug. 29.
Sami Edge covers higher education and politics for The Oregonian. You can reach her at sedge@oregonian.com or (503) 260-3430.