Lori Chavez-DeRemer represents Oregon’s 5th Congressional District, a pivotal region that includes parts of the Willamette Valley and central Oregon. She was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2022, becoming one of the first Republican women to represent Oregon in Congress. Her victory marked a significant political shift, flipping the district from Democratic to Republican for the first time in decades.
Chavez-DeRemer’s background is rooted in small business and local governance. She earned her undergraduate degree from California State University, Fresno, where she met her husband, Dr. Shawn DeRemer. The couple later moved to Oregon and opened Anesthesia Associates Northwest, which she managed while raising their twin daughters.
Her political career began with local government, where she served as the mayor of Happy Valley, Oregon, from 2010 to 2018. As mayor, she emphasized economic development, public safety, and infrastructure improvements, overseeing the city’s rapid population growth and increased regional prominence.
In Congress, Chavez-DeRemer focuses on a range of legislative priorities, including supporting small businesses, reducing government regulations, and addressing issues like homelessness and drug addiction, which are prevalent in her district. She advocates for bipartisan solutions to combat inflation, improve public safety, and enhance rural economic development.
As one of the few Hispanic members of Congress, Chavez-DeRemer brings a unique perspective to her role, advocating for policies that promote opportunity and inclusion. Her election underscores her commitment to representing the diverse needs of her district while championing conservative principles.
Chavez-DeRemer resides in Happy Valley with her family. She is deeply involved in her community and continues to prioritize local engagement in her congressional work.