Bend, OR – Oregon Governor Tina Kotek delivered a spirited State of the State address on January 13, addressing the Legislature with a blend of frustration over the state’s challenges and optimism about its potential for progress. The address, her first as governor, was a reflection on the difficulties Oregon has faced in recent years and the work that lies ahead to address them.

Kotek began her speech by recalling the tumultuous events of the past five years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Labor Day wildfires, and the ongoing struggles with homelessness. She noted that despite these significant setbacks, Oregon remains standing, with a renewed sense of resilience and a deeper understanding of how to cope with uncertainty.

Drawing on her experience as a former high school track athlete, Kotek used a metaphor from the 400-meter relay to convey her message of persistence and teamwork. She likened the challenges Oregon faces to the baton exchange in a relay race, where mistakes and setbacks are inevitable, but continued effort and practice lead to eventual success.

“We do not always agree on what those choices are, but I encourage each and every one of us to rise above the maze of politics and see the path forward with one voice,” Kotek told lawmakers. “The good choices will yield health, prosperity, and community resilience.”

The Governor’s speech was largely focused on housing, homelessness, mental health, and education—issues that have been central to her administration’s efforts since she took office. Kotek emphasized the state’s commitment to reducing homelessness through a combination of shelter beds, permanent housing, and financial aid, although she acknowledged that these efforts are not moving fast enough. In particular, she highlighted the need for more affordable housing and the challenges many Oregonians face in finding homes they can afford.

“We are beginning to see a glimpse of a brighter horizon ahead,” Kotek said, urging lawmakers and state leaders to remain persistent and not lose focus on the work ahead. Despite the improvements made, data released by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development revealed a troubling 13% increase in homelessness in Oregon between 2023 and 2024.

Republican lawmakers, in a rebuttal to the address, criticized Kotek’s administration for what they called a failure to address the state’s housing crisis. They pointed to rising housing costs and a lack of affordable homes, accusing the governor of exacerbating the problems with policies that have made life harder for Oregonians.

In her speech, Kotek also addressed the state’s mental health and addiction treatment systems, acknowledging that too many Oregonians are suffering from inadequate care. She detailed a proposed $90 million investment in mental health services, aimed at increasing treatment beds and enhancing worker recruitment and retention. The governor stressed the importance of better coordination between shelters and mental health providers, particularly in easing the strain on the Oregon State Hospital, which is currently overcrowded with individuals facing criminal charges but in need of long-term psychiatric care.

Education, another cornerstone of Kotek’s agenda, was also a key topic in her address. She proposed a change in how the state calculates funding for schools, calling for more accountability to ensure resources are directed toward improving student outcomes. While offering few details on the proposal, she stressed the need for direct assistance in districts that show signs of failure, rather than relying on voluntary requests for help.

Kotek also took the opportunity to address climate change, particularly in light of the state’s recent wildfire season. With over 1.9 million acres burned and the cost of firefighting efforts reaching $350 million, the governor called for enhanced climate resilience measures. Her budget proposal includes setting aside $150 million to help cover wildfire costs in the future, an amount she referred to as “money for a Very Very Bad Smoky Day.”

The governor wrapped up her speech by touching on her administration’s efforts to streamline state government operations. Since taking office, Kotek said the state has made progress in reducing staff vacancies and improving the speed of hiring, all while working to implement recommendations from state audits. She also noted that transportation funding would be a major focus in the upcoming legislative session, though she offered only a brief mention of the issue during her speech.

While Kotek’s address received praise from many in the legislature, Republicans were quick to criticize her administration’s record, accusing her of perpetuating failed policies and driving up costs for Oregonians. House Minority Leader Christine Drazan and Senate Minority Leader Daniel Bonham both expressed concerns that Kotek’s leadership has led to increased housing costs and an exodus of residents from the state.

Despite the political divide, Kotek remained resolute in her message of optimism and persistence. She concluded her speech by calling on lawmakers to work together to create a future where all Oregonians have access to safe, affordable housing, quality healthcare, and a strong education system. “Let’s be bolder,” she urged. “Let’s build more housing.”