Federal judge rejects request from Oregon senators who boycotted Legislature seeking to run in 2024

By CLAIRE RUSH
Associated Press

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — A federal judge has rejected a request from Oregon Republican state senators who boycotted the Legislature to be allowed on the ballot after their terms end. The judge issued the ruling on Wednesday. State Sens. Dennis Linthicum, Brian Boquist and Cedric Hayden filed the federal lawsuit to challenge their disqualification from running for reelection under Measure 113. The voter-approved constitutional amendment bars legislators from seeking reelection after 10 or more unexcused absences. Each of the three senators racked up more than 10 absences during a record six-week walkout that paralyzed the 2023 legislative session. Another challenge to the measure is being considered by the Oregon Supreme Court.