Courtney Bangs

Courtney Bangs received both her bachelor’s degree and her graduate degree from Oregon State University. Bangs' career experience includes working as a teacher.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm a Clatsop County Commissioner and educator, first elected in 2020. I currently serve as Vice-Chair of the Commission. I have advocated for fiscal responsibility, local control, and common sense. On the County Commission, I have consistently challenged state overreach, demanded accountability for taxpayer dollars, and fought to protect working forests and the rural jobs that support families and fund schools and public safety. I am a graduate of Oregon State University with a master's degree in agricultural education. As a parent and educator, I believe in parental rights, strong local schools, and practical education that prepares kids for real-world success. My husband and I live with our children on our family's tree farm in Knappa.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I will continue to defend working forests and natural resource jobs. My communities depend on our ability to manage natural resources in a smart way that supports the men and women who work in the logging, agriculture, and fishing industries.One thing that I hear all the time and see from my work in the county is that Salem is not accountable for all our tax dollars that we send them. I believe in transparent and efficient use of our funds and want lawmakers to be responsive when voters ask where the money is going.Housing is a big concern on the North Coast and there is way too much government red tape that is getting in the way of constructing new units. Developers want to build here, and I want to give them all the tools they need to make it happen. More housing supply would mean more affordability, and in turn a more prosperous region.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As a parent and longtime educator, I want families to have access to affordable childcare, schools that respect parental rights, and improved health and wellness for our children. Oregon ranks poorly for overall youth flourishing, consistently appearing in the bottom tier nationally for mental health and education, with a 2023 Mental Health America report placing it last in youth mental health access. While ranking in the middle for overall child well-being and health, it struggles with a 43rd–47th ranking in education and high youth suicide rates.

I'm also focused on the economy and worry that Oregon's excessive regulations are making it impossible to run a business here and hire and keep local workers.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Clatsop County Commissioner Anthony Huacuja

Oregon Right to Life PAC

Association of Oregon Loggers

Young Republicans of Oregon

Cary Johnson

North Coast First PAC

Senator

Suzanne Weber