About ONA’s PAC
ONA maintains a political action committee (PAC) to best serve the interests of frontline caregivers across Oregon. The ONA PAC is focused on supporting candidates for state and local office and engaging in ballot measure campaigns that align with our mission.
Through our PAC we:
- Conduct interviews, endorsements, and support of candidates for office who share our vision of a more accessible and equitable healthcare system in Oregon and have a record of supporting our agenda.
- Oppose or support ballot measures based on how they impact frontline healthcare workers, patients, and our healthcare system.
- Engage in grassroots activities and campaigns including member communication, paid advertising, phone banking, and door-to-door canvassing.
PAC Officers
Our PAC is governed by a Board of Directors which consists of nurses and other frontline caregivers who are represented by ONA.
- President: Jayesh Palshikar, RN, BS
- Immediate Past President: Nancy MacMorris-Adix, NMNP
- Vice President: Sarah Mittelman, RN, CEN
- Treasurer: Brian O’Connor, RN
- Secretary/Staff Member: Paige Spence, ONA Gov. Relations Director
- ONA Board Liaison: Allison Seymour, RN, BSN, CMSRN
- ONA Board Liaison: Natasha Schwartz, RN
- Director: Amanda Fritz, MA, retired RN
- Director: Kate Ballard, BSN, RN
- Director: Melanie Schubert, RN
- Director: Maggie Schein, RN
Candidate Endorsement Process
Candidates for the Oregon Legislature or statewide office must complete an interview with a group of ONA members in their area or with PAC members. Following the interview, our PAC members make a decision on an endorsement based on the interview, the candidate’s past voting record, and the candidate’s viability. Candidates running for re-election may receive an automatic endorsement based on their voting record and past support of ONA’s legislative agenda or may be asked for an additional interview.
For more details on our endorsement process view flowcharts for your situation here.
Ballot Measure Support
The Oregon Nurses Association Cabinet on Health Policy may take positions on any ballot measures that impact frontline caregivers, affect our ability to collectively bargain, or impact Oregonians ability to receive the care they need and deserve. Through our PAC, ONA allocates financial resources and participates in campaign efforts to support or oppose ballot measures.
Local Candidate Races and Ballot Measures
ONA members interested in getting the PAC to support a local government candidate or a local ballot measure, please click here to learn more.
Interested in Joining ON-PAC?
All active ONA members are eligible to run for a seat on our PAC Board per the PAC bylaws. If you are interested in joining or want more information, please contact ONA’s Government Relations Staff.
Endorsements
Bylaws
