I’m a father of two and Hubbard’s City Council President. I’ve stepped up wherever my community needed me, and now I’m ready to serve House District 18. I grew up here in this district, and my family lived the realities of rural Oregon. When logging restrictions cost my dad his mill job, I saw firsthand how decisions made far away can impact families right here at home. That experience shaped my belief that rural communities deserve a strong voice in Salem and policies that protect local jobs and working families.

When I was elected to the Hubbard City Council, I made a commitment to protect taxpayers and focus on practical solutions. My colleagues later chose me to serve as City Council President because I ask tough questions, work collaboratively, and stay focused on results. During my time in local government, I have:

● Helped balance our city budget without raising taxes

● Secured state grant funding for roads, parks, and public safety improvements

● Diversified funding sources so local families weren’t left holding the bill

● Built strong relationships with neighbors, business owners, and community leaders

● Supported and maintained a fully funded police department to keep our community safe

I’ve also served as President of the Hop Festival nonprofit board, helping lead one of our community’s most important events. That role reinforced my belief that strong communities are built by volunteers, small businesses, and neighbors working together. When voters raised concerns about the transportation tax referendum, I didn’t just talk about it, I personally collected signatures to ensure their voices were heard.

I believe leadership means standing with your community and making sure the government remains accountable to the people it serves. I understand small-town Oregon because I live it every day. I see what rising fuel prices and utility bills do to family budgets. I hear from farmers and small business owners about the pressure they’re under. I know how hard working families are trying to keep up.

As a former volunteer firefighter, I’ve seen firsthand what it means to drop everything and respond when someone calls for help. I’ve witnessed the sacrifices our first responders make, and I understand how critical it is that they have the training, equipment, and support they need. I also bring a background in nonprofit and public service work, where I’ve focused on fundraising, outreach, and finding resources so communities can get things done without raising taxes. For me, leadership means showing up on someone’s worst day and doing everything you can to make it better.

About Joseph Steininger