Occupation: State Representative
Occupational Background: State Representative, legislative
aide, waitress, dental assistant.
Educational Background: James Monroe High School,
attended Clark Community College.
Prior Governmental Experience: State Representative
1999 – present; House Majority Leader, 2001-2002; House Speaker, January
2003 – present; Chair, Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education; Co-chair,
Emergency Board; Co-chair, Legislative Administration Committee; Co-chair,
Legislative Counsel Committee.
Karen Minnis: A leader for Oregon
Karen Minnis was elected Speaker of the House because of her leadership qualities.
Karen led the charge last session to make sure schools, seniors, the mentally
disabled and law enforcement were protected from a severe budget shortfall.
Karen Minnis: Jobs, not more taxes
Karen Minnis did not support the massive tax increase that voter’s defeated
with Ballot Measure 30. Karen believes the best remedy for Oregon’s economy
is to create an environment where jobs can be created and people can get back
to work. When people are working, taxes are being paid and essential services
are funded.
Karen Minnis: An education supporter
Karen fought for PERS reform, which saved schools more than $200 million that
can be redirected into classrooms. She also introduced and passed legislation
providing more opportunities for technical and vocational training.
Karen Minnis: A voice for seniors
It was Speaker Karen Minnis that fought for funding for seniors during the
last legislative session, which is why she received an award from the Oregon
Health Care Association for her relentless support of senior issues.
Karen Minnis: An open door
Few legislators are more responsive to constituents than Karen Minnis. Over
600 people asked for help in the last 12 months and got it from Karen’s
office. She cares about the needs of people and works hard to be a good representative.
Karen Minnis is endorsed by:
Charles Becker, mayor, Gresham
Fred W. Bruning
David Fuller, mayor, Wood Village
Hiroshi Morihara
Renee Sessler
Dave Shields
Robert Silverman
Mike Weatherby, mayor, Fairview
Junki Yoshida