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
Majority of Oregon counties will still have restrictions after ‘freeze’ ends
The governor's office said Brown will outline health and safety measures that will take effect after Oregon's current two-week coronavirus "freeze." Watch live at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday.
New fund for Black Oregonians faces mounting legal pressure
Created in July to help people impacted by COVID-19, the Oregon Cares Fund now faces two federal lawsuits.
Oregon lawmakers unveil proposal to extend eviction ban and compensate landlords
The proposal would allow qualifying tenants to escape eviction for nonpayment until June 30. They'd be required to pay back rent the next day.
‘OPB Politics Now’: A possible ‘catastrophic’ special session and a battle for House speaker
In this episode, we discuss the possibility of a special session to deal with the ongoing pandemic and the battle for House speaker.
Oregon lawmakers considering first-ever ‘catastrophic’ special session next month
If Gov. Kate Brown declares a catastrophic emergency due to the coronavirus, lawmakers could likely convene the only remote session in state history.
Oregon’s budget picture holds steady, but coronavirus looms
Economists say Oregon's economy is stable and will continue to grow slowly. But lawmakers differ on near-term steps to help those most impacted by the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.
Oregon Democrats pick Tina Kotek for House speaker, but a challenge remains
Rep. Janelle Bynum, a Clackamas County Democrat, said Monday she would continue to press her case for leading the Oregon House and would work to build a coalition to unseat Rep. Tina Kotek.
Freeze, Oregon: Gov. Kate Brown restricts businesses again as COVID-19 cases surge
The order will last at least two weeks and also restricts private gatherings and worship services. Some businesses and schools will be allowed to continue operations.
Oregon’s top lawmakers want to remain in power, but a challenger has emerged
State Rep. Janelle Bynum will mount a rare challenge to House Speaker Tina Kotek when Democrats vote on leadership next week. Senate President Peter Courtney is expected to cruise to another term.
Oregon elections director out after penning a blistering memo
Steve Trout stepped down on Friday. Days earlier, he sharply criticized the secretary of state's office for a "lack of vision and leadership."