Dirk VanderHart
Dirk VanderHart covers Oregon politics and government for OPB. Before barging onto the radio in 2018, he spent more than a decade as a newspaper reporter—much of that time reporting on city government for the Portland Mercury. He’s also had stints covering chicanery in Southwest Missouri, the wilds of Ohio in Ohio, and all things Texas on Capitol Hill.
Dirk’s byline has appeared in USA Today, The New York Times, The Houston Chronicle, The Columbus Dispatch, The Oregonian, and more. He’s got a journalism degree from Michigan State University.
Send Dirk the best story ideas.
Latest Stories
Eugene voters reject recall against state Rep. Paul Holvey in resounding fashion
The campaign featured big spending on both sides, but ended in a decidedly lopsided outcome as initial returns show the Eugene Democrat surviving one union's efforts to oust him.
Oregon’s bid to juice semiconductor activity has paid off, governor says
Kotek is getting ready to dole out $240 million that could lead to more than $40 billion in investments.
Oregon House Republicans tap Rep. Jeff Helfrich as new minority leader
A former police sergeant, Helfrich is serving in is first full term in the House He replaces Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, who stepped down.
Kotek directs Oregon state troopers to crack down on fentanyl distribution
The agency says it will move staff and step up patrols in order to combat the worrisome spread of the drug.
Oregon House GOP leader stepping down
Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson has led the House GOP caucus since late 2021.
Accusations against Oregon political operative add intrigue to heated recall campaign against state lawmaker
Oregon's largest private-sector union tapped Joe Emmons' services even as its sister union in Washington accused him of meddling and "black-ops."
Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum will not seek reelection
After 12 years, the role of Oregon’s top lawyer will be up for grabs in 2024.
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An open secretary of state seat next year is already attracting well-connected Oregon Democrats
Treasurer Tobias Read and state Sen. James Manning are headed for a primary battle to fill the seat currently held by Secretary LaVonne Griffin-Valade, who replaced Shemia Fagan.
One of Oregon’s top budget writers wants to be state treasurer
Sen. Elizabeth Steiner, D-Portland, is hoping to trade her powerful position for one of Oregon's more low-key statewide offices.
As reimbursement policy ends, more Oregon employees are working from out of state
Gov. Tina Kotek put an end to a policy of paying state employees for traveling back to Oregon. It hasn't dissuaded people from working from elsewhere.