SISTERS, Ore. — Rep. Janelle Bynum held a town hall in Sisters on Saturday afternoon, offering local residents a chance to speak directly with their representative about issues impacting both the community and the nation. The event, held at Sisters High School, saw hundreds of constituents filling the gymnasium to engage in discussions with Bynum on a wide range of concerns.

This town hall marked the third such event Bynum has hosted in her district as part of her ongoing effort to stay connected with voters across Oregon’s Fifth District. The forum provided a platform for residents to voice their opinions on various topics, from local infrastructure needs to national policy matters.

Bynum emphasized the importance of staying in touch with the people she represents, noting that these events allow her to gain valuable insights into the issues that matter most to her constituents. “It’s essential for me to listen to the people I serve and hear directly from them about the challenges they face and the changes they want to see,” she said during the town hall.

Originally scheduled to join Bynum at the event, Senator Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., was unable to attend due to a change in the Senate’s voting schedule. This shift also led to the postponement of Merkley’s town halls in Madras and Prineville. Despite Merkley’s absence, the town hall continued as planned, with Bynum fielding questions and engaging in dialogue with attendees.

Topics discussed ranged from healthcare access and education funding to environmental policies and infrastructure improvements. Many residents expressed concerns about the state of local roads, while others voiced their desire for greater federal support for community-based healthcare services. National issues, including the ongoing debate over climate change and the future of social security, also featured prominently in the conversation.

Bynum’s town halls have become a regular part of her outreach efforts, helping foster a sense of connection between the representative and her district. As she continues to travel across Oregon’s Fifth District, Bynum remains committed to staying in close touch with the people she serves, ensuring that their voices are heard in both local and national conversations.

The town hall in Sisters was another step in that direction, underscoring the importance of transparency, communication, and community engagement in the democratic process.