PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Earl Blumenauer, a highly regarded and unique figure in Oregon politics for several decades, has made the decision to not seek reelection after serving 27 years in Congress. Blumenauer cites the turmoil in Capitol Hill and his desire to address the challenges facing his hometown of Portland as his reasons for stepping away from Congress.
Blumenauer, known for his distinctive style of wearing a bow tie and bicycle pin, has dedicated nearly five decades of his life to public service at the local, state, and federal levels. He played a significant role in shaping Portland’s identity, particularly in relation to its cycling culture and focus on green living. However, Blumenauer is concerned that the city’s reputation is now overshadowed by the prevalent issues of homelessness and mental health gripping its streets, which he helped address during his time in City Hall.
“We have serious problems,” he expressed in an interview with The Associated Press. “My goal was to make Portland the most livable city in the country, but it seems that we have strayed from that path.”
Blumenauer’s decision to prioritize his connection with his hometown stems from the recent chaos in Congress, including the removal of Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy and bitter infighting within the GOP.
“The dysfunction in Congress is increasing and has become an embarrassment,” Blumenauer stated. “Continuing to run for reelection and remaining here for another two years isn’t the best use of my time. I would rather focus on issues that truly matter to me, my family, and the community.”
Blumenauer’s political journey began in 1973 when he entered the Oregon House at the age of 24. He later served as a county commissioner in Multnomah County and as a member of the Portland City Council before being elected to the U.S. House in 1996. Since then, he has represented Oregon’s 3rd Congressional District, which includes various parts of Portland, as well as sections of Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge.
His commitment to cycling advocacy became evident during his time on the Portland City Council, where he oversaw transportation from 1987 to 1996. Blumenauer’s impact remains visible today, most notably with the naming of a bike and pedestrian bridge after him, which was inaugurated last year.
“Blumenauer played a crucial role in establishing Portland as the leading cycling city in America,” said Jonathan Maus, editor and publisher of BikePortland. “For Portlanders passionate about cycling, his presence and support meant a great deal.”
In Washington, Blumenauer continued his advocacy for what he considers “the most efficient form of transportation”—cycling—as a means to bring lawmakers together on common ground.
“As the founder of the Congressional Bike Caucus, Rep. Blumenauer transformed his passion for cycling into a movement for safer streets in Washington, D.C., Portland, and beyond,” praised House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Blumenauer’s contributions in Congress extended beyond cycling. He championed legislation related to green energy, climate change, the environment, and cannabis reform, among other issues. Serving on the House’s influential Ways and Means Committee, he played a significant role in shaping major pieces of legislation, such as the bipartisan infrastructure law and the Inflation Reduction Act.
The Inflation Reduction Act, regarded as the most significant climate change law in American history, seeks to accelerate the expansion of green energy sources like wind and solar power. Since its enactment, it has instigated substantial investments in these sectors, as stated by the White House.
The bipartisan infrastructure law, with a funding of $1 trillion, directs resources to crucial areas such as roads, bridges, ports, and broadband internet. Blumenauer specifically advocated for increased funding for bike and pedestrian transportation and the establishment of the Safe Streets & Roads for All program.
“The past couple of years have been some of my most productive,” Blumenauer revealed. “I am leaving Congress on a high note.”
In addition to his achievements, Blumenauer co-founded the Congressional Cannabis Caucus and is a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
Looking ahead, Blumenauer intends to provide guidance and support to local officials and advocates grappling with Portland’s pressing issues. He is optimistic that revenue from a regional tax approved by voters for homeless services and Oregon’s plan to use federal Medicaid dollars for housing assistance will aid officials in addressing the city’s challenges.
“There is hope,” he affirmed. “If we can piece everything together correctly, significant progress can be made.”
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Claire Rush is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
