Hanna back to lead House Republicans

On Friday, Oregon House Republicans chose their caucus leaders to take them through the 2009 legislative session.

House Minority leader Bruce Hanna (R-Roseburg) is back at the leadership helm after he was re-elected during the caucus meeting.

Hanna will be joined by two new representatives in the leadership; Rep. Kevin Cameron (R-Salem) will replace Rep. Andy Olson (R-Albany) as deputy minority leader and Rep. Ron Mauer (R-Grants Pass) was elected to replace Rep. Gene Whisnant (R-Sunriver) as minority whip.

“Leadership will take advantage of the talents and real-world knowledge of all members, many of whom have run businesses and met payrolls,” Rep. Maurer said. “Together, we will forge practical and common sense solutions on many issues, including expanding health care access, improving our schools, enhancing public safety, and improving the management of Oregon’s natural resources.”

There was no word on who would replace Rep. Linda Flores (R-Clackamas) as the Republicans’ Deputy Whip. Flores lost a close re-election battle on Tuesday to incoming State Rep. Brent Barton (D-Clackamas).

The leadership will have their work cut out for them when they put forth the Republican agenda for the 2009 legislative session. House Republicans lost five seats in the election on Tuesday, and will be in a super-minority status on issues regarding tax increases.

“With the economy in recession, House Republicans understand the Legislature cannot continue to raise taxes and increase government spending at record rates,” Cameron said. “Over the next year, our caucus will demonstrate bipartisanship and support sound public policy. However, we will not hesitate to stand up and speak out when the Democrats try to pass legislation that would take Oregon further down the wrong track.”