Oregon – Oregon Senator Ron Wyden plans to keep his longstanding tradition of interacting directly with Oregonians by announcing a new series of town hall events planned for Memorial Day weekend. Planned on Saturday, May 24 in Coos and Curry counties, the events will include U.S. Representative Val Hoyle joining him; an extra town hall will follow on Sunday, May 25 in Jackson County.
Senator Wyden keeps his vow to conduct open-to-all town halls in every one of Oregon’s 36 counties annually with these upcoming events, having held more than 1,100 meetings so far. He claims this initiative is about maintaining open lines of communication with the people he represents—hearing their issues, responding to questions, and ensuring their views get to Washington, D.C.
Reflecting on the timing of these gatherings, Wyden said that Memorial Day weekend is a bittersweet reminder of the Americans who gave their lives for the freedoms of this nation.
“As we remember our fellow Americans over Memorial Day weekend who made the ultimate sacrifice, I know Oregonians are always grateful for the freedoms of speech and assembly these heroes fought to preserve,” he said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong connection with constituents across the state.
Congresswoman Val Hoyle echoed that sentiment, highlighting the value of hearing directly from south coast residents.
“Their opinions help us to better represent their interests in Washington, D.C., which is essential for a healthy democracy,” she said. Both Wyden and Hoyle expressed anticipation for meaningful conversations during these events.
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The schedule for the town halls kicks off on Saturday, May 24, with Coos County’s event at 2:30 p.m. in the North Bend Middle School Gym, followed by Curry County’s town hall at 6 p.m. in the Driftwood Elementary School Gym in Port Orford. Senator Wyden will hold a town hall for Jackson County residents on Sunday, May 25 at 4 p.m. in the Medford Armory.
With doors opening one hour before each event, organisers are pushing early arrival as even the largest available venues may have limited capacity. For safety, guests are requested to leave backpacks and large bags at home.
Senator Wyden’s series of town halls strengthens the continuous legacy of community involvement and government openness in Oregon by providing a direct platform for Oregonians to express their opinions, ask questions, and engage in the democratic process.