Oregon’s Cliff Bentz focuses on rural issues after decisive primary win

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KTVZ) — After winning the Republican primary in Oregon’s Second Congressional District, Cliff Bentz is now turning his full attention to the general election this fall.

Bentz said the primary victory reflects strong support from voters across the district and gives him a mandate to keep pushing the issues that matter most in rural Oregon.

A former state representative, state senator, and Ontario farmer and attorney, Bentz said he remains focused on agriculture, water rights, reliable power, rural health care, and the future of the Snake River dams.

Primary victory

The incumbent Bentz trounced his opponents, garnering over 80% of the vote, and will move on to face voters in November. "Having the opportunity to represent the people of Oregon’s Second Congressional District is one of the greatest honors of my life. I am truly privileged to be entrusted with this responsibility,” said Cliff Bentz in a statement.

Oregon's lone Republican member of Congress will face off against Southern Oregon Democrat Chris Beck, a former state lawmaker from Phoenix and rural land use expert.

His campaign says the primary win shows continued backing from conservatives and rural communities throughout eastern Oregon. Bentz has built much of his political identity around protecting agricultural interests, natural resources, and local economies.

Congressional District 2 is the state's largest district, spanning more than 70,000 square miles across 20 counties.

Looking ahead to November

With the primary behind him, Bentz says his focus now is squarely on the general election. He says he plans to keep fighting for policies that support livestock producers, protect water for agricultural use, and keep electric rates manageable for families and businesses.

He also says rural Oregon’s long-term challenges remain at the center of his campaign, including access to health care and the future of the region’s energy and water systems. Bentz says those issues will guide his work if voters send him back to Washington.

Watch KTVZ News full, unedited interviews with Rep.Bentz:

• DECISION 2026: Bentz touts rural wins as health care subsidy fight looms
• Rep. Cliff Bentz Talks Federal Budget, Forest Management, and Rural Transportation in KTVZ News Interview
• Congressman Cliff Bentz discusses key issues impacting Central and Eastern Oregon