“Jeff Merkley, known as Oregon's 'roots and boots' Senator, was born in Myrtle Creek, Oregon, and raised in a working-class family deeply shaped by the timber economy. The first in his family to graduate from college, Jeff's journey into public service was inspired by an internship with Senator Mark Hatfield. After working on nuclear disarmament and military policy in Washington, D.C., he returned to Oregon, leading efforts in affordable housing before entering public office. Elected to the state legislature in 1998 and later serving as Speaker, he championed issues such as affordable healthcare, LGBTQ+ rights, and consumer protections. Since 2009, Jeff has served in the U.S. Senate, advocating for healthcare, housing, education, and jobs while engaging directly with Oregonians through annual town halls in all 36 counties. He resides in East Portland with his wife, Mary, their two children, and two Airedale terriers.”