Democrat
Occupation: Workforce Data & Analytics Consultant, Kaiser Permanente
Occupational Background: Labor Economist, International Brotherhood of Teamsters; Labor Economist, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority; Labor Analyst, Safeway
Educational Background: MA Economics, Johns Hopkins University
Prior Governmental Experience: n/a
Oregon’s economy has stalled. The cost of living continues to rise and many communities feel like opportunity is harder to find. I believe our district has extraordinary opportunities for economic growth.
District 51 – Canby, rural Oregon City, Sandy, Estacada, Beavercreek, Eagle Creek, and Mulino – is where cities give way to farmland, forests, and rivers. Many of us choose to live here because we value community, space, and access to the outdoors.
The Clackamas River corridor could become a major outdoor recreation destination for the Portland region, supporting local businesses and tourism in Estacada, Beavercreek, Eagle Creek, and rural Oregon City, much like the Deschutes River supports Bend’s economy.
In Sandy, already the gateway to Mount Hood, we should help more of the millions of visitors who pass through town stop and support local shops and restaurants.
In Canby, expanding regional events at the fairgrounds and supporting local agriculture and small businesses can strengthen one of Oregon’s most vibrant rural communities.
My name is Joseph Richards, and I am running for Oregon House District 51 because I believe in the opportunity our region possesses. What we need now is a clear strategy to grow that opportunity.
My professional background is in workforce and economic policy. I have worked as a labor economist and workforce analyst helping organizations understand how jobs, wages, and economic growth are connected.
As a Beavercreek resident and father of four daughters, I care deeply about how the next few decades unfold for our district and what opportunities are available to the next generation of Oregonians.
To learn more about my ideas for District 51 and Oregon’s economic future, please visit OregonRainmakers.com.
I would be honored to earn your vote in the Democratic primary.
(This information furnished by Joseph Richards.)