Senator Jeff Merkley, Democratic from Oregon

Jeff Merkley

Senator Jeff Merkley

Jeff Merkley began his career as a nonprofit executive focused on affordable housing before entering public service. Elected to the U.S. Senate from Oregon in 2008, he has prioritized environmental protection, affordable healthcare, and strengthening democracy. Merkley played a key role in authoring the Volcker Rule to curb risky banking practices and serves as a leading voice on the Senate Appropriations and Environment Committees. He is known for his detailed policy work and collaborative approach, aiming to deliver practical solutions that reflect Oregon’s values and needs.

Education

  • M.P.P., Woodrow Wilson School, Princeton University
    (1982)
  • B.A. in International Relations, Stanford University
    (1979)
  • High School, David Douglas High School

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(2009-Present)

Representing Oregon

Member, Oregon House of Representatives

(1999–2008)

(Democratic Leader, 2003

Speaker

(2007)

)

President, World Affairs Council of Oregon

(1996–2003)

Director of Housing Development, Human Solutions

(1995–96)

Executive Director, Portland Habitat for Humanity

(1991–94)

Policy Analyst, Congressional Budget Office

(1985–89)

Presidential Fellow, Office of the secretary of Defense

(1982–85)

Policy Focus Areas

Health7%
Environmental Protection7%
International Affairs6%
Public Lands and Natural Resources5%

Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Jeff Merkley's record in Congress.

Filibuster Reform

Led efforts to reform Senate filibuster rules to reduce gridlock and improve legislative efficiency.

Affordable Housing Advocacy

Secured funding and advanced legislation to expand affordable housing and address homelessness in Oregon.

Ban on Arsenic in Apple Juice

Championed successful legislation to ban arsenic and lead in children's apple juice and other foods.

Climate Action Now Act

Co-authored and supported legislation to rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement and address climate change.

Committee Assignments

View details →
  • Senate Committee on the BudgetRanking Member
  • Joint Committee on Printing
  • Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works
  • Senate Committee on Appropriations
  • Senate Committee on Foreign Relations
  • Senate Committee on Rules and Administration

Sen. Jeff Merkley FAQ

Reach Oregon Lawmakers

Senator Merkley focuses on Health, Environmental Protection and International Affairs. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Oregon's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.

Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.

Start a Campaign