As Oregon heads toward the 2026 governor’s race, one issue is already defining the conversation: Donald Trump’s agenda.
A new statewide survey shows that Oregon voters are sharply divided over the former president’s policies, with clear signs that this divide could play a major role in determining the next governor.
The poll results reveal that many voters are uncomfortable with Trump’s recent actions, including his push to deploy the National Guard to Portland and cuts to food stamps and health insurance programs.
These reactions could heavily influence how Republican candidates fare in a state where public perception leans more moderate.
Voter Reactions Show a Strong Pushback
The poll, conducted among 738 likely Oregon voters, highlights a clear direction: 61% prefer a governor who will challenge Trump’s agenda, while only 34% want someone who will continue it.
This gap puts pressure on Republican candidates Christine Drazan and Danielle Bethell, both of whom have avoided criticizing Trump’s controversial decisions.
When asked about the National Guard deployment to Portland, six in ten voters opposed the move. Among independents — a critical voting bloc — 57% disapproved.
Many Oregonians say Trump’s description of Portland as a “war zone” and his direct intervention in the city escalated rather than eased tensions.
Who Are the Key Candidates?
The early field includes familiar faces with strong political backgrounds. Here’s a breakdown of the leading names and their current campaign strength:
| Candidate | Party | Cash on Hand | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christine Drazan | Republican | ~$750,000 | Narrowly lost the 2022 governor race |
| Danielle Bethell | Republican | ~$55,000 | Marion County Commissioner |
| Tina Kotek (expected) | Democrat | ~$1.5 million | Incumbent Governor, likely to run |
While Tina Kotek has not formally announced her re-election bid, she holds a significant financial advantage. Meanwhile, Republicans face a tough climb in both fundraising and voter perception.
Why Trump’s Policies Matter So Much in Oregon
Trump’s recent decisions — including federal benefit cuts and military-style intervention in Portland — have amplified concerns among moderates and Democrats. Many voters feel these policies target vulnerable Oregonians and disregard local leadership.
Comments from political observers suggest that Drazan and Bethell have tried to walk a fine line.
Neither has strongly rebuked Trump’s decisions, especially the National Guard issue. Instead, they’ve emphasized concerns about Portland’s local governance, hoping to shift focus away from their connection to national politics.
However, the survey shows that voters are paying close attention to where candidates stand — or fail to stand — on Trump’s actions. This creates a risky path for Republicans, especially in a state where Trump’s approval has historically been low.
A Look Back: Why 2026 Could Be Tight
The 2022 governor’s race was unexpectedly close. Christine Drazan lost by just over three percentage points, while nonaffiliated candidate Betsy Johnson captured nearly 9% of the vote.
That three-way split narrowed the outcome and showed that Oregon voters are more flexible than previously believed.
Republicans hope that 2026 could offer another opening — but only if they can distance themselves from unpopular national politics while presenting local solutions.
Oregon’s 2026 governor’s race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in the country. With Trump’s agenda emerging as a defining issue, candidates are being forced to take positions that could either energize voters or push them away.
The survey shows a strong preference for leaders who oppose Trump’s policies, creating a difficult but not impossible road ahead for Republican contenders.
As campaigning intensifies, Oregon’s political landscape is set for a heated, high-stakes battle.