Lisa Reynolds

Lisa Reynolds was born in Park Forest, Illinois. Reynolds earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Chicago in 1986 and an M.D. from the UCLA School of Medicine in 1991. Her career experience includes working as a pediatrician with The Children's Clinic, a pediatric resident with Harbor UCLA Medical Center, and chief resident in pediatrics with Randall Children's Hospital Portland. Reynolds co-founded Indivisible Oregon and has been a member of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense, the Oregon Pediatric Society, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Lisa Reynolds. I am a physician, an activist and a Democratic candidate for the Oregon legislatures.

My career as a pediatrician has been very rewarding. And it's shown me what is and what is not working for Oregon families. I've long felt I'd like to do more for families than what I can accomplish in the exam room.

I've been an activist on firearm injury prevention with Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense. As Moms' volunteer state legislative lead for two years, I've helped empower hundreds of volunteers to come to Salem, meet with their legislators and help pass laws that save lives. I'm also a founder and an organizer with Indivisible Oregon, which works to thwart the Trump agenda through actions and election work. These experiences motivated me to run for office.

My priorities: healthcare for all, improved access to mental health services, gun violence prevention, supportive, affordable housing and action on the climate crisis.

Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit. I've been on the front lines, seeing kids in my office (and on telehealth visits) who likely have coronavirus. I'm steeped in the numbers and the science as I distill information to help patients and voters navigate this pandemic. I've announced my Oregon Pandemic Recovery Act. Now, more than ever, we need medical experts in the legislature. And others agree. I'm endorsed by Willamette Week, The Oregonian and The Portland Tribune.

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 am uniquely qualified for this moment to lead Oregon through the response and recovery from the COVID pandemic. We need fresh perspective in Salem, not business as usual bureaucrats. My experience as a small business owner brings a unique perspective to Salem.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

We need health care for all Oregonians. This includes mental health services - we need a robust rebuilding of our mental health workforce so that we can take care of Oregonians mental health needs before they become worse.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity. Hard work. Compromise. Knowledge.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am a good communicator. I am smart and hard working. I get along well with others and can make quick connections with people.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To take alot of information and make informed decisions. To be accountable to constituents.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Lisa Reynolds improved the health of every Oregonian and help Oregon recover from the pandemic.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Crossing to Safety. A perfect novel about complicated friendships.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Born to Run

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

My brother's severe mental illness. It's a constant worry and I wish I could do more for him.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

I believe some experience is helpful, but it's more important to have real world experience - running a business, for example. I like Oregon's tradition of citizen legislators - folks who serve but also have careers outside of the legislature.

What do you perceive to be your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?

Our biggest challenge is and will be the recovery from the economic devastation of the COVID pandemic.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?

There needs to be transparency.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Absolutely. When you have relationships with your colleagues, regardless of party, it is easier to come to consensus.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Health Care

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Alissa Keny Guyer

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I do not have plans for that at this time.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I spoke to a voter two weeks ago who is really struggling. She cannot get through to the Oregon Employment Department and needs to have her UI started ASAP. She has lost her work in the pandemic.