We Need an Intervention
Oregon is in a doom loop. The economy sputters and our institutions both deliver less and actively stand in the way of growing our economy. Oregon simultaneously becomes unaffordable for everyday Oregonians while producing fewer and fewer jobs that can sustain and grow families and communities.The entrenched interests (ie. public sector unions), who rule the roost in Salem, have no intention or any idea about how to grow an economy, but what they are good at is protecting their turf and ensuring the politicians make no substantive decisions that would actually prioritize businesses and make Oregon an attractive place to do business.
Something is going to have to give. Oregon’s economy won’t just magically turn the corner.
Despite rhetoric about economic competitiveness, the 2026 legislature left many Oregon businesses questioning whether lawmakers are serious at all about changing course.
December’s CNBC report on 2025 America’s Top States for Business rankings drove much of the political narrative in the months leading up to the 2026 legislative session. Oregon was sinking to 39th in the nation for overall business climate. After years on a steady downward trajectory, this was the resounding thud that finally seemed to get the attention of politicians.
Governor Kotek responded by announcing her “prosperity roadmap” aimed at improving Oregon’s economic competitiveness. She established the Prosperity Council signaling that lawmakers may finally be listening to what Oregon employers, entrepreneurs, and job creators have been saying for years.
For a moment, there was optimism that Oregon’s leaders were ready to change course.
But despite the promise of a new direction, 2026 revealed Oregon’s political class was business as usual.
One bill — SB 1507 — was framed as closing a “loophole,” but in reality, represented another blow to the economy by disconnecting Oregon from critical tax cuts that incentivize investments in machinery and equipment. The bill disallowed the “bonus depreciation” deduction for Oregon businesses - leaving Oregon businesses wondering whether the political class could even muster the will to do the easiest things to support business - a sentiment indicated in our 2025-26 Legislative Scorecard.
Clearly, we need a change of political leadership.
That’s why the Defend Small Business PAC exists.
Our small businesses cannot afford to sit on the sidelines. There’s too much at stake. Supporting candidates that prioritize the success of small business is the only way to change Oregon’s economy and reputation.
Oregon businesses need more than lip service. They need leaders willing to act.
Join the fight.
The Defend Small Business PAC (PAC 17474) helps protect, preserve and foster a political environment that will strengthen local businesses, their employees, their communities, and the private enterprise system.
