Conservative activist Schimmoller to seek House District 53 seat
Lifelong conservative political activist Ben Schimmoller announced Thursday that he will run for the Oregon House District 53 seat being vacated by Sunriver Republican Gene Whisnant next year.
Schimmoller becomes the second candidate to announce a run in the May GOP primary for the District 53 seat, in the wake of Whisnant’s announcement Monday that he won’t seek re-election. Redmond Realtor and Planning Commission member Jack Zika filed to run on Tuesday.
According to Schimmoller’s announcement, he “felt compelled to run for the seat after continually seeing Central Oregon values tossed aside by the Portland & Salem politicians in charge of the Oregon Legislature.”
“We need more conservative voices representing Central Oregon values in Salem,” Schimmoller said.
He cited attacks on constitutional freedoms and small business, lack of action on education and PERS reform, and the passage of the largest tax increase in Oregon history as some of the policies coming out of Salem that he will work hard to change.
“Decades of one-party rule have failed the state; our education, housing, and land use management policies are just a few results of this poor leadership,” Schimmoller said. “I promise to be a strong voice in Salem. Central Oregon won’t be ignored.”
Schimmoller began his campaign with the following endorsements:
Phil Henderson – Deschutes County Commissioner
“Ben is a good friend and I know he will represent Central Oregon values in Salem. He won’t compromise just to get along, and will strive to serve our needs.” said Henderson.
Bob Perry – Redmond School Board Member & Former Deschutes County Republican Chair
“We are lacking strong principled young conservatives. Ben’s passion and knowledge of the issues ensure that he’d be an excellent representative.” said Perry.
Patti Adair – Deschutes County Republican Chair & Local Activist
“Ben’s work has been steadfast to elect leaders at all levels of government. He’s worked tirelessly to better our community. I know he will work hard for Central Oregonians in the Legislature.” said Adair.
Master Chief Petty Officer J.W. Terry – Veteran & Former High School Teacher
“Veterans and Students are being fed empty promises by politicians in Salem. I’ve known Ben for years and his integrity is beyond reproach.” said Terry.
Schimmoller is a graduate of Oregon State University. He lives in Bend along with his wife, Jessica, and their dog, Waffle. He is Republican Precinct Committee Person in Deschutes County, In 2016 he served as campaign manager for Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Henderson in the 2016 election.
Oregon House District 53 is represented by the distinguished Gene Whisnant (R-Sunriver) who announced Monday he would not seek re-election. Schimmoller praised his many years of public service saying “Rep. Whisnant’s service is an example of true dedication and leadership Salem so desperately needs. His shoes will be hard to fill, but I’m up for the challenge. He’s a true statesman.”
Oregon House District 53 includes Redmond, Sunriver, Tumalo, and parts of Bend.
