John Swanson, Chief of Staff to state Sen. Bruce Starr (R-Dundee) and a small business owner, has announced his candidacy for Polk County Commissioner, Position 2. The seat is currently held by Commissioner Craig Pope, who has served since 2011 and was last re-elected in 2022. Pope has said he will not seek another term.
Polk County in Transition
Polk County, part of the Salem metropolitan area, has been among Oregon’s faster-growing communities in recent years. Its population climbed from about 87,000 in 2020 to more than 90,000 in 2024. While the county remains majority white, residents who identify as Hispanic or Latino now account for nearly 15% of the population, and other communities of color are also growing. Median household income was about $51,000 in 2020, with nearly 13% of residents living below the poverty line.
The county encompasses both urban areas, such as West Salem, and a large rural region. That mix of agricultural, suburban, and small-town communities has shaped local politics and will be central to debates in the 2026 commissioner race.
Swanson’s Background
Swanson has worked for Starr, managing legislative priorities and constituent services. He also directs the Leadership Fund, an organization that supports political balance in the state legislature. A resident of the Rickreall area, Swanson previously lived in West Salem. Outside of politics, he has volunteered as a youth coach with the YMCA and as a Cub Scout den leader in the Monmouth-Independence community. He is also active with Cultivate Community Church in Monmouth.
In his announcement, Swanson emphasized his commitment to visible, local service.
“What’s most exciting about county governance is how I’ll see the impact of my work each day,” Swanson said. “Polk County is a wonderful place, and I want to be hands-on in keeping it that way.”
Endorsements
Swanson’s entry into the race was accompanied by endorsements from a range of current and former Republican lawmakers.
Rep. Anna Scharf (R-Amity) highlighted Swanson’s government experience, calling him “a valuable asset to Polk County.” Rep. Lucetta Elmer (R-McMinnville) described him as “a real team player” and said she looked forward to collaborating with him if elected.
Starr endorsed Swanson’s candidacy, calling him an “easy choice for Polk County” and citing his pragmatic and bipartisan approach. Other supporters include former state Sens. Brian Boquist and Larry George, and former Reps. Raquel Moore-Green and Jessica George.
Leaders of statewide organizations have also voiced support. Jason Williams of the Taxpayers’ Association of Oregon praised Swanson’s fiscal discipline, while Lois Anderson of Oregon Right to Life cited his advocacy for mothers and families.
Current Commissioner and Upcoming Election
Commissioner Craig Pope, who is not seeking reelection, has served the county for more than a decade and held leadership positions with the Association of Oregon Counties, including president, vice president, and treasurer. He has also been active in national county associations. His departure opens a seat on the three-member board, which oversees county services and budget decisions.
The official candidate filing period begins Sept. 11, 2025, and closes March 3, 2026. The primary election is scheduled for May 19, 2026, followed by the general election on Nov. 3, 2026. Candidates will have the opportunity to file voter pamphlet statements to outline their priorities as the campaign season begins.
As the race develops, voters in Polk County will weigh Swanson’s government experience and community involvement against the visions of any additional candidates who join the field. The contest will shape the county’s leadership at a time of demographic growth and ongoing debates about fiscal policy, public services, and support for families.
