Janelle Bynum, candidate for US Representative, 5th District
- Party:
- Democratic
- Occupation:
- State Representative, Local Business Owner
- Relevant Experience:
- State Representative, 39th District, 2023-Present
- State Representative, 51st District, 2017-2023
- Personal Information:
- Born: January 31st, 1975 - Washington, DC
- Age: 49
- Husband: Mark
- Children: Christine, Ellis, Caroline, and Asa
- Website: janellebynum.com/
What qualifications and/or experience do you believe make you the best candidate to fill this position?
As the daughter of two public school teachers, I learned early on the importance of democratic values and the power of education. My parents made sacrifices to ensure I had a safe learning environment, and that foundation shaped my commitment to improving our communities. Now, as a mother of four, I deeply understand how critical education is to building a strong future for Oregon. My work as a state legislator has been focused on leveling the playing field, advocating for policies that expand opportunities and promote fairness for all.
In addition to my legislative experience, being a small business owner has given me a unique perspective on the importance of investing in people. I’ve mentored employees, provided scholarships, and encouraged others to dream big, always with the goal of strengthening our community from the ground up. This hands-on experience has shown me what it takes to foster a more equitable and prosperous society, and I will carry these lessons with me to Congress.
I’m running for Congress to bring that same dedication and urgency to representing Oregon’s 5th District. I will fight for workers’ rights, lower prescription drug costs, protect reproductive and LGBTQ+ rights, build affordable housing, tackle the climate crisis, and create pathways for young people to get ahead. I’m committed to ensuring that every Oregonian has the opportunity to thrive, and I will be a tireless advocate for restoring the middle class and building a brighter future for all.
What are the top two issues you see facing those in this role, and how do you plan to address them?
When I talk to voters, safety and protection of our reproductive rights and freedoms comes up time and time again.
As a parent, the safety of our community is one of my top priorities. That’s why I voted for a bipartisan proposal to increase funding for law enforcement in Oregon, fought to get fentanyl off our streets, and worked with members of both parties to roll back Measure 110 and recriminalize hard drugs.
Reproductive health care decisions should be between a woman and her doctor – not politicians in Washington. Even before Roe v. Wade was overturned, I took action in the state legislature to protect abortion access here in Washington. But if Republicans get their way, they will pass a national abortion ban and restrict access to contraception and IVF, which would even impact states like ours. I’ll go to Washington and pass federal legislation to protect reproductive health care.
