In this situation, Sen. Michael Dembrow’s plan to retire early to give Rep. Khanh Pham and Willy Chotzen a head start on the 2025 legislative session encountered a legal barrier.
The Oregon state law dictates that appointments to fill legislative vacancies can only occur if the vacancy happens at least 61 days before a general election.
Since Dembrow’s proposed retirement date fell within 61 days of the November election, the seat could not be filled early, and Dembrow will continue serving until January 13th, 2025, when Pham is sworn in.
On the other hand, Rep. Maxine Dexter, who resigned in late August 67 days before the election, created a situation where the law allows her successor, Shannon Jones Isadore, to be appointed early.
Since Isadore won the Democratic primary and faces little opposition, county commissioners in Washington and Multnomah counties will appoint her as the new representative for the 33rd House District soon.
This provides a contrasting scenario between the two Portland districts regarding how early legislative work can begin.