For a second time, Governor Kotek is seeking applicants to become the next Jefferson County district attorney

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) – Three months after her first announcement, Governor Tina Kotek said Tuesday she is accepting additional applications for the position of Jefferson County district attorney.

Longtime DA Steven Leriche submitted his resignation earlier this year, effective Feb. 2, as he took a position with the Oregon Department of Justice. But he told KTVZ News he would continue to serve as DA until a replacement is appointed.

Governor Kotek intends to fill the vacancy by appointment, as provided in Article V, Section 16 of the Oregon Constitution and ORS 8.640, according to Tuesday's announcement, which you can read in full below:

The Governor’s Office said it welcomes applications from candidates with a diversity of backgrounds and experiences. Applicants must submit a District Attorney Interest Form to the Governor’s Office.

Please note that the District Attorney Interest Form is not the same form that is used for judicial vacancies. The District Attorney Interest Form is available online here.

Interested applicants should address their completed application forms to Richard A. Lane, General Counsel, Office of the Governor, and email (no mail or hand delivery) those completed forms to Shevaun Gutridge at shevaun.gutridge@oregon.gov. Forms must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025.

Oregon law requires that, at the time of appointment, the appointee must be admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Oregon (ORS 8.630 and ORS 8.640).

Questions regarding the appointment process should be directed to Shevaun Gutridge by emailing shevaun.gutridge@oregon.gov or calling (503) 378-6246.