Hermiston Mayor Dave Drotzmann has announced he will run for Oregon Senate District 29.

“This dynamic rural district deserves representation in Salem that understands not only the challenges ahead but the opportunities to build on our unique strengths through our core values,” Drotzmann said in his announcement.

Sen. Bill Hansell, R-Athena, holds the seat but is not seeking reelection.

Two other candidates already entered the race: Todd Nash, Wallowa County commissioner, and Jim Doherty, former Morrow County commissioner.

“Sen. Hansell has been a strong voice for the region, and with his pending retirement, I believe I have the experience and abilities necessary to strengthen relationships and advocate for each of District 29’s counties and communities.”

In addition to his role as mayor of the largest town in Eastern Oregon, Drotzmann is a small-business owner and president-elect of the League of Oregon Cities board of directors.

Drotzmann moved to Eastern Oregon in 1998 when he started Lifetime Vision Source in Hermiston as the sole optometrist.

He has since grown the business to more than 15 employees and three optometrists.

During his 25 years in the community, Drotzmann served in elected office eight years on the Hermiston School Board and the past 10 years as Hermiston’s mayor.

“As a business owner, mayor and father, I’ve seen first-hand how policies and tax spending decisions in Salem too often overlook rural Oregonians,” Drotzmann said.

“I will advocate for a common-sense state budget that keeps dollars in pockets of Oregonians by cutting back bloated and ineffective state programs, investing in the responsible use of our region’s natural resources to create family-wage jobs, and protecting the constitutional rights of every Oregonian.”

In 2018, Drotzmann was appointed to the League of Oregon Cities board to advocate for cities of all sizes, focusing on providing the tools and local control necessary for communities to set and reach their own goals for growth and development. As president-elect he is working to understand the issues facing cities of all sizes and connect with leaders across the state to help bridge divides and find solutions.

Republican leaders already are voicing their support for Drotzmann. He begins his campaign with endorsements from Rep. Greg Smith, R-Heppner, and U.S. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer.

“Dave’s experience both as an optometric physician and mayor of Hermiston has made him an outstanding advocate for Northeast Oregon and he will continue to demonstrate his leadership and wisdom as state senator,” Smith said

Find more information about Drotzmann’s campaign at www.DrotzmannForOregon.com.