Oregon
Oregon entered the Union on February 14, 1859 as the 33rd state. Oregon reached statehood on the eve of the Civil War, building on an earlier frontier era defined by overland migration, Pacific trade, timber, farming, and the politics of the far West. Today its state government is centered in Salem and follows the bicameral model with a governor, a Senate, and a House of Representatives.
Government & Representation
Use this section to understand how the state organizes executive authority, legislative power, and federal representation.
Oregon organizes state government through an elected governor and a bicameral Legislative Assembly composed of a Senate and a House of Representatives. The state’s structure is also shaped by a strong tradition of direct democracy through initiatives and referendums.