Shannon Monihan files for state Senate seat held by Tim Knopp — who endorsed her, if courts rule he can’t run again

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Downtown Bend Business Association Executive Director Shannon Monihan announced Monday that she has filed for the Oregon Senate District 27 seat that GOP Senator Tim Knopp currently holds -- and Knopp endorsed her bid, if the legal fight over the Republican walkout last session means he can't seek re-election. 

The Oregon Supreme Court is reviewing a lawsuit Knopp and others filed against the Secretary of State to determine his eligibility to run again. They claim the language of voter-approved Measure 113 means it doesn't bar them from running in this year's election.

In a news release, Republican Monihan said, "It has become clear we need a plan for Senate District 27 to keep representation in Salem with a proven leader. If Senator Knopp can't or won't run again, I am ready to step into the role of State Senator; I lead by example, a proponent of uplifting and empowering others by being a community connector and an actionable visionary." 

The release also included this endorsement from Knopp on Monihan, "Shannon is an impressive candidate, from her deep passion advocating for Central Oregon employees and small businesses to her rich history of training women in self-defense and gun safety.  If I am unable to run for State Senate, she is a respected leader ready to serve.  Shannon believes in lower taxes, returning and preserving your Kicker Tax Refund and defending freedom for all Oregonians."

Here's the rest of her news release:

During difficult economic times, Shannon Monihan has been a dynamic and committed Executive Director of the Downtown Bend Business Association.  She strongly advocates for community safety and the needs of local small businesses, working tirelessly to create a prosperous environment for Bend entrepreneurs.  Her leadership and dedication are invaluable in promoting the business community's interests diplomatically and effectively.  Shannon's contributions have made a significant difference in the growth and vitality of Bend's business sector.

Former Bend City Councilor and President of Bend Downtown Association Chris Piper shared, "Shannon is no stranger to bringing people together.  As Executive Director of the Downtown Bend Business Association, she built strong relationships quickly with City Councilors and the Mayor, regardless of party affiliation.  She tirelessly advocates for small and medium-sized companies, understanding a thriving local economy will benefit all Central Oregonians." 

For more information, supporters may go to www.votemonihan.com, and contributions to her campaign effort can be made via "Monihan For Senate." 

About Shannon Monihan

Shannon is a lifelong Oregonian and ultimately settled in Central Oregon after many family vacations.  As a working single mother of two, Shannon overcame challenges and adversity in much of her adult life and turned her experiences and strengths towards helping others.  Her dedication to empowering women and championing others is truly admirable and remarkable.

Due to Shannon's entrepreneurial spirit, she has an extensive business background, having worked and managed many start-ups in various fields, from aesthetic medicine and firearms training to children's clothing and media consulting.  In 2016, she founded and still runs "Red Frog GS, Inc.", a tactical training brand based in Oregon that offers intermediate to advanced firearms training courses for both military and civilians.  Additionally, "Red Frog Women" is a specialized focus program that provides education and insight on threat preparedness and firearms training for women new to the gun world.

The Monihan family, with military, community-servant, and business backgrounds, has deep roots in Oregon.  Her father, Joseph Monihan, retired from the US Army as a Colonel with two tours in Vietnam.  Her mother, Margie Monihan, was a schoolteacher.  Shannon has three siblings, including J. Brian Monihan, a publisher and president of the Pamplin Media Group; Kerri Monihan, a social worker; and Timothy Monihan, an insurance agent.