Sen. Jeff Merkley Addresses War, Economy, and Youth Mental Health at Sisters Town Hall
(UPDATE: Adding information from the event, quotes from Sen. Jeff Merkley, and attendees)
SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- At a town hall held at Sisters High School on Saturday, Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley spent more than an hour engaging directly with constituents, answering questions and discussing a wide range of pressing issues.
The Oregon Democrat’s stop in Sisters was part of a broader Central Oregon tour, during which he met with residents across the region to hear their concerns firsthand.
Key Issues: War, Gas Prices, and Mental Health
During the event, Merkley fielded questions on topics including the ongoing war in Iran, national politics, and the growing youth mental health crisis. One issue that resonated strongly with attendees was the economic impact of rising gas prices, which many linked to instability in the Middle East.
Merkley emphasized that resolving the conflict could play a key role in stabilizing energy costs.
“In ending this war, the main thing that will bring down oil prices is ensuring ships can safely transit the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
Community Voices
Several hundred people attended the town hall, each bringing their own concerns and priorities.
Ronald Carver, a Bend resident, said his primary focus was the war.
“I’m certainly concerned about the war. I’d like to know how we can stop this war in Iran. That’s one of the main things,” Carver said.
Jim Henson, also from Bend, expressed alignment with Merkley’s positions on environmental and foreign policy issues.
“I’m looking for a boost to my spirit because he’s concerned about the environment, and I’m concerned about the environment. He’s concerned about illegal wars—I’m concerned about illegal wars,” Henson said.
Others raised concerns closer to home. Tom Dolberg of Sisters pointed to the rising cost of living, particularly for retirees.
“Retirees’ experiences, you know, cost of living,” Dolberg said.
Younger voters also made their voices heard. Clark Vowels, a college student from Bend, highlighted the importance of political unity.
“I want to know how we can build a coalition of both young voters and one that’s inclusive of different political beliefs,” Vowels said.
Looking Ahead to the Primary
With Oregon’s May primary election just six weeks away, the town hall reflected a politically engaged electorate eager for answers and action. Merkley, who is up for reelection this year, is facing a primary challenge as he continues his outreach across the state.
Following the Sisters event, the senator continued his tour with stops in Crook and Jefferson counties, aiming to connect with voters throughout Central Oregon.
