Rep. Ben Cannon resigns to take policy post in Governor's office

Rep. Ben Cannon, D-Portland, today announced he would be resigning his seat to become Education Policy Advisor to Governor John Kitzhaber.

Rep. Ben Cannon, D-PortlandCannon has served part of Northeast Portland in the Oregon House since 2006. He is a private school teacher and said in today's press release he ran for the Legislature because he "hoped to help turn the tide on an education system that was strained to the breaking point." Cannon says he thinks Governor Kitzhaber "has helped create a rare window of opportunity for turning the tide."

Cannon often noted the challenge he faced in balancing his teaching job and family life with legislative duties. He is known as an environmental and education policy champion, and also was one of only two legislators who did not accept campaign contributions from corporate and organizational Political Action Committees.

Cannon will leave his job teaching humanities to middle schoolers at Arbor School of Arts and Sciences to take the full-time position in the Governor's office.

Under state law, the Multnomah County Commission must nominate Cannon's replacement from a list of nominees supplied by the Democratic precinct committee people in his legislative district.

New Leaders Emerge from 2011 Session

Here are House members the CFM state affairs team views as emerging leaders based on their performance in the 2011 Oregon legislative session:

• Rep. Mark Johnson, R-Hood RiverRep. Mark Johnson, R-Hood River.  He was a virtual unknown coming to Salem after beating an incumbent Democratic member last November. His only previous government experience was chairing the Hood River School Board. Almost instantly, Johnson gained respect by legislators and lobbyists for his quick study, hard work and straightforward demeanor. He was a key behind-the-scenes player for the House GOP on education reform legislation. His success has been rewarded by being named co-chair of the interim House Higher Education Committee (just a subcommittee during the session). Many believe Johnson will be a key player on state education policy for years to come.

• Rep. Val Hoyle, D-EugeneRep. Val Hoyle, D-Eugene.  2011 was Hoyle's first full session after being appointed to the House in late 2009. She is considered likable, smart and always fun to be around. For a new member, she made a big impact on her committees:  Business and Labor, Health Care and Higher Education. Republicans like her because of her business background and reputation as a straight shooter. She is in a safe Democratic seat, so she could serve for a long time. 

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