Republican candidate Ben Fisher has announced his bid for Oregon House District 18, entering the race with a platform centered on small business growth, education, constitutional protections, and stewardship of the state’s natural landscape.
Fisher, a small business owner and single father, is seeking to represent a district that includes Silverton, Molalla, Hubbard, Aurora, St. Paul, Mt. Angel, and surrounding communities. In announcing his candidacy, he emphasized both his personal ties to the region and his family’s longstanding history in Oregon.
Fisher identifies himself as a seventh-generation Oregonian and a descendant of Reverend Ezra Fisher, an early religious leader and abolitionist who played a role in Oregon’s formative years. By referencing that lineage, Fisher framed his campaign as part of a broader family tradition rooted in civic involvement and public service.
“As a seventh-generation Oregonian, I understand the importance of preserving our state’s unique spirit while addressing the challenges of today,” Fisher said in his announcement. He added that his background as a business owner and parent has shaped his political outlook. “My experience as a small business owner and a single dad has given me a practical perspective on the issues that matter most to our communities.”
House District 18 spans a mix of rural and small-town communities in Marion and Clackamas counties, areas where agriculture, small businesses, and family-owned enterprises play a significant role in the local economy. Fisher’s campaign indicates that support for local businesses will be a central theme of his platform. He has stated that policies fostering economic opportunity and reducing barriers for entrepreneurs will be among his legislative priorities.
Education is another key focus. While the announcement did not outline specific proposals, Fisher signaled interest in policies aimed at strengthening educational outcomes for families in the district. He also cited the protection of basic rights as a guiding principle of his campaign, though he did not detail particular legislative measures tied to that objective.
Environmental stewardship rounds out the core themes of his platform. Fisher expressed support for protecting Oregon’s natural beauty, a topic that often resonates across party lines in communities that rely on agriculture, outdoor recreation, and tourism.
“My ancestor, Reverend Fisher, fought for equality and justice,” Fisher said. “I’m committed to continuing that fight by working tirelessly for the people of District 18.” By drawing that historical connection, Fisher positioned his candidacy within a broader narrative of advocacy and public engagement.
Fisher has described his campaign as an open invitation for dialogue with residents across the district. “I’m excited to listen, share my vision, and work collaboratively to make District 18 an even better place to live, work, and raise a family,” he said.
The race for House District 18 is expected to draw attention as candidates outline competing visions for economic policy, education, and the role of state government in local affairs. As the campaign develops, voters in Silverton, Molalla, Hubbard, Aurora, St. Paul, Mt. Angel, and nearby communities will have opportunities to hear directly from Fisher and other candidates about their plans for the region.
Additional information about Fisher’s campaign is available on his website and social media platforms, where he is encouraging supporters and interested residents to engage with the campaign and learn more about his priorities.