Oregon House Republicans staged a dramatic walkout on Monday, February 23, 2026. They boycotted floor sessions. This action denied the House a quorum. It halted legislative business for the day. The protest stemmed from two key issues. One was a hostile workplace complaint. It targeted Democratic Rep. Jason Kropf. The other was an upcoming vote. This vote concerned a gas tax referendum. Republicans felt Democrats were mishandling the Kropf complaint. They also opposed moving the gas tax vote.
GOP Protests Handling of Kropf Complaint
House Republicans claim Democrats ignored a serious allegation. Representative Thủy Trần accused Kropf of creating a hostile environment. This allegedly happened during a vote on gun control bill HB 4145. Trần stated Kropf pressured her. She felt intimidated into changing her vote. Kropf is a chief sponsor of HB 4145. A gun rights advocate filed a formal complaint. The complaint alleged Kropf verbally abused and intimidated Trần. Republicans viewed Democrats’ actions as a cover-up. Democrats announced Kropf’s resignation from the House Conduct Committee. They appointed a replacement. House Republicans felt this was an attempt to sweep the issue under the rug. They demanded a full and transparent investigation. House Speaker Julie Fahey stated the Republicans’ walkout was an abdication of duty. She said it denied Oregonians a functioning government.
Gas Tax Referendum Timing Sparks Conflict
The walkout occurred as the Oregon Senate passed Senate Bill 1599. This bill seeks to move a gas tax referendum. It would shift the vote from November 2026 to May 2026. Democrats argue this provides crucial certainty for transportation funding. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) faces a significant budget hole. Proponents say earlier certainty helps ODOT plan. Republicans, however, call the move political. They believe Democrats want to avoid an unpopular tax. This tax would be on the same ballot as the governor and other lawmakers seeking reelection in November 2026. Rep. Greg Smith stated Republicans would not return until the gas tax issue was addressed. Senate Republicans had previously used procedural delays and walkouts to protest SB 1599. The Senate passed the bill largely along party lines. One Democrat voted against it.
Tight Deadlines and Political Stakes
The legislative maneuvering highlights high stakes. Governor Tina Kotek must sign SB 1599 by February 25, 2026. This deadline is essential for the bill to make the May primary ballot. If passed, the bill reschedules a referendum on tax and fee hikes. These hikes were enacted in 2025 to fund transportation. The original legislation included a gas tax increase. It also raised vehicle registration and title fees. A Republican-led campaign gathered signatures. This forced a statewide vote on these measures. Republicans argue moving the vote to May betrays voters. They cite the 250,000 signatures collected for a November vote. They also express concern about lower turnout in May primaries. The gun bill, HB 4145, also faced delays due to the walkout. This complex situation involves fundamental disagreements. It reflects ongoing partisan tensions in Oregon politics. The outcome will impact transportation funding. It will also influence the political landscape for upcoming elections. Republicans accuse Democrats of bypassing public input. Democrats counter that Republicans are creating gridlock.
Looking Ahead
The Oregon House faces pressure to act. The gas tax bill needs to pass its chamber. The governor’s signature is required soon. The Kropf workplace complaint remains a point of contention. Republicans insist on a thorough investigation. Democrats prioritize legislative function and moving forward. The coming days will be critical. They will determine the fate of the gas tax referendum timing. They will also shed light on how legislative disputes are resolved. This news from Oregon showcases deep partisan divides. It highlights the challenges of governing. It affects transportation and public trust.
