Senate Democrats elect leaders, reaffirm '09 agenda

November 07, 2008

SENATE MAJORITY OFFICE

NEWS RELEASE: Nov. 7, 2008
CONTACT: Molly Woon, Senate Majority Office, (503) 367-4327

SENATE DEMOCRATS ELECT LEADERS, REAFFIRM 2009 AGENDA

ASTORIA – Demonstrating their commitment to fight for Oregon’s middle class and those working hard to get ahead, the Senate Democrats today announced their leaders for the 2009 legislative session.

At a retreat held in Astoria this afternoon, Senate Democrats elected the following:

Senate President: Sen. Peter Courtney (D-Salem)
Senate President Pro Tempore: Sen. Rick Metsger (D-Welches)
Senate Majority Leader: Sen. Richard Devlin (D-Tualatin)
Senate Deputy Majority Leader: Sen. Laurie Monnes Anderson (D-Gresham)
Senate Majority Whip: Sen. Alan Bates (D-Ashland)
Senate Majority Whip: Sen. Mark Hass (D-Beaverton)
Senate Assistant Majority Leader: Sen. Floyd Prozanski (D-Eugene)
Senate Assistant Majority Leader: Senator - Elect Diane Rosenbaum (D-Portland)

At the same meeting, the caucus also reiterated its support for the Oregon Agenda 2009.

“The members elected today are a testament to the strong and experienced leadership in our caucus,” said Senator Devlin. “I am honored to have the support of my colleagues and I am confident that this team will be effective advocates for our 2009 agenda and the people of Oregon.”

Many of the Senate Democratic leaders elected this weekend have held their positions previously. Senator Courtney has been Senate President since 2003 and Senator Devlin was elected Senate Democratic Leader in July 2007.

Under Senate Rules, Senators Courtney and Metsger must receive 16 votes each from the full Senate to be elected President and President Pro Tempore, respectively. Democrats hold 18 seats in the Senate, which will convene January 12, 2009.
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