A packed race for governor: What to know about Oregon's primary elections

Oregon will hold primary elections on Tuesday, with major parties selecting nominees for November’s midterm elections. Roughly 25 candidates, including nine Democrats and multiple Republicans, are competing to challenge incumbent Governor Tina Kotek for a second four-year term. Kotek is the frontrunner in the Democratic primary, facing challengers such as a children’s book author, the leader of an Indigenous nonprofit, and an inventor focused on water shortages. The Republican field includes State Senator Christine Drazan, who previously ran against Kotek, and former NBA player Chris Dudley. The primaries also include a referendum that could repeal a state fuel tax, with consumer pressure tied to the US-Israel war on Iran affecting gas prices.

"The primaries should winnow down the nearly two dozen candidates seeking to challenge incumbent Governor Tina Kotek. In the northwest corner of the United States, Oregon has fostered a reputation as a left-wing stronghold. Since the 1980s, the Beaver State has consistently elected Democrats in most of its statewide races. But even in a comfortably blue state like Oregon, the fight to hold onto political power can be competitive."

"Tuesday's vote could also serve as an economic bellwether. Voters will weigh in on a referendum that could repeal a state fuel tax, as the US-Israel war on Iran heaps strain on consumers at the gas pump. Polls will open on Tuesday at 7am Pacific US time (15:00 GMT) and close at 8pm (4:00 GMT)."

"Incumbent Governor Kotek is making a bid for a second four-year term. But she is fielding competition from dozens of other candidates, including nine Democrats. Going into the Democratic primary, Kotek is the frontrunner. Her challengers include a children's book author, the leader of an Indigenous nonprofit and an inventor who hopes to address water shortages."

"Even more contenders are angling for the Republican gubernatorial nomination. Among them is State Senator Christine Drazan, who ran against Kotek in 2022. Drazan has been critical of President Donald Trump's tariff policies but supportive of his tough stance on immigration. Also on the Republican ballot is former NBA player Chris Dudley, who was the Republican gubernato"

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