Max Sherman

Max Sherman earned a graduate degree from Oregon State University.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Max Sherman is a lifelong Oregonian and 35-year Agricultural Science Instructor and FFA Advisor who has dedicated his career to education, agriculture, and community service. He has lived in House District 32 for 25 years with his wife, Lynda, and has been actively engaged in public policy for nearly four decades through Farm Bureau, Timber Unity, and direct legislative involvement at the local and state level.

Max has served on agricultural and legislative committees, worked with industry leaders, and advocated for rural communities across Oregon. His background gives him a deep understanding of how policies from Salem impact working families, small businesses, and natural resource industries.

He is running to restore trust and accountability in government after voters in his district felt betrayed by recent decisions, including a major transportation tax vote. Max stood with voters by helping gather over 250,000 signatures to refer that tax to the ballot and serving as a plaintiff in a statewide lawsuit defending the referendum process.

His top priority is addressing the rising cost of living by reducing burdensome regulations, improving government accountability, and supporting economic growth in agriculture, forestry, fishing, and small businesses. Max is committed to being a strong voice for rural Oregon and bringing common-sense leadership back to Salem.

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?

The $4.3 billion transportation tax is a clear example of how out of touch Salem has become with rural Oregon. Representative Cyrus Javadi cast the deciding vote for this tax, then switched parties and later voted to move the referendum to a low-turnout May election—actions many voters see as a betrayal. I stood with over 250,000 Oregonians by helping gather signatures to refer the tax and serving as a plaintiff defending voters’ rights. If elected, I will fight for transparency, accountability, and responsible transportation funding that prioritizes fixing spending and oversight before asking taxpayers for more.The rising cost of living is being driven by excessive regulations, taxes, and policies that hurt our natural resource industries—agriculture, timber, fishing, and small business. These are the backbone of District 32, and they are being pushed out by one-size-fits-all policies from Salem. I will work to reduce unnecessary regulations, improve permitting efficiency, and support policies that allow businesses to grow and create family-wage jobs. A strong local economy is key to healthy communities, and I will be a strong voice for rural/coastal Oregon’s economic future.After 35 years as a teacher and FFA advisor, I’ve seen how education shapes a student’s future. Lowering standards and expectations is not the answer. Our schools must get back to basics and ensure students graduate prepared for the workforce or higher education. I will advocate for stronger academic standards and expanded Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that give students real-world skills. When students succeed, our communities and economy succeed. We owe it to the next generation to prepare them for life beyond the classroom.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about protecting Oregon’s agricultural way of life and preparing the next generation for success. My wife Lynda and I have farmed for years, raising and donating food to families, churches, and local organizations. I’ve seen firsthand how strong agricultural communities support those in need, and I will fight to protect the right to farm and keep those communities thriving. As a 35-year educator and FFA advisor, I am equally passionate about education and workforce readiness. Today, many of my former students are working in our local industries, and I am committed to ensuring future generations have the skills and opportunities to succeed.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Oregon Farm Bureau Federation, Oregon Right to Life PAC, Former State Senator Betsy Johnson, Dan & Carol Marie Leuthold, Larry & Pamela Zweifel, Josh Sisco, Katrina Nelson, Gregg Brewer and many more community members!

Max Sherman did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2020 Candidate Connection survey.