With Oregon’s May 19 primary election approaching, state and local election officials joined federal and civil rights leaders this week during a virtual town hall focused on voter participation, election security, and public confidence in Oregon’s vote-by-mail system.
The online event brought together Tobias Read, Jeff Merkley, and Dag Robinson to answer questions from Oregonians regarding election procedures, ballot security, and voting access statewide. The discussion was moderated by ACLU of Oregon Executive Director Sandy Chung.
The town hall was held as election officials across Oregon continue preparing for the state’s primary election, which remains one of the largest vote-by-mail operations in the country. Oregon has conducted elections primarily by mail for more than two decades, a system state officials say has helped increase accessibility while maintaining election integrity.
During the event, Secretary Read emphasized the importance of civic participation and public engagement in the democratic process. He stated that Oregon’s elections are designed to be secure, accurate, and fair, while encouraging residents to take part by casting their ballots.
Senator Merkley addressed ongoing national debates surrounding voting access and election laws, describing vote-by-mail as a longstanding part of Oregon’s election infrastructure. Merkley also discussed concerns over efforts in some parts of the country to tighten voting requirements, arguing that eligible voters should continue to have accessible pathways to participate in elections.
Robinson, speaking on behalf of county election officials across the state, focused on the operational side of election administration. He stated that local election offices work to follow Oregon law while ensuring ballots are processed accurately and securely. County clerks throughout Oregon oversee ballot collection, signature verification, and tabulation procedures during each election cycle.
Chung used the discussion to encourage civic involvement beyond voting itself, urging residents to contact local election officials if they have questions about the voting process. She also encouraged Oregonians to consider volunteering or working with local election offices during election periods.
The town hall also served as a reminder for voters ahead of the May 19 primary deadline. Under Oregon law, ballots must be returned and postmarked no later than 8:00 p.m. on Election Night in order to be counted.
State officials reminded voters that multiple ballot return options are available statewide, including secure drop boxes and traditional mail service. Election officials advised residents planning to return ballots through the postal system to mail them no later than May 12 to help ensure timely postmarking and delivery.
Voters can also track the status of their ballots through the state’s online election portal, which allows Oregonians to verify ballot receipt and monitor whether their vote has been accepted for counting.
The virtual forum comes during a period of heightened national attention on election administration and voter confidence, topics that continue to shape political conversations at both the state and federal levels as the 2026 election season moves forward.
Residents who were unable to attend the town hall can view a recording through the Oregon Secretary of State Elections Information Page.