Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner Swearing in Ceremony

Good evening. It is an honor to be here to celebrate the swearing in of Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. This moment is not just a changing of the guard, but a moment to reflect on the career of a person who has dedicated their life to the wellbeing of Oregonians and the responsible stewardship of our state resources. 

The Treasurer plays a vital role for our state. They manage billions in public funds and ensure we are responsible stewards of taxpayers’ money and the retirement funds for the people who dedicated their careers to this state. This is no small task. 

I have known Elizabeth for a long time. We have poured through many lines of budgets – her as Co-Chair and me as Speaker. I experienced a leader and partner who never lost sight of our essential goal: to make the lives of Oregon families better – healthier. 

Oregon voters chose her to protect and strengthen our state resources because they know what I know: Her 30 years of experience as a doctor gives her a deep understanding of the difference state government can make in Oregonians’ lives. Elizabeth is clear-eyed about obstacles, detail-oriented about solutions, and driven by a calling to protect Oregonians’ wellbeing.  [anecdote about ‘Senator’ Steiner] 

As we stand here today, the challenges Oregon faces are not insignificant. We face an evolving economy and communities still recovering from a pandemic. We face a persistent housing crisis. We face a changing climate that demands sacrifice and change across Oregon. We face a state with aging infrastructure that demands updates. We must ensure our young people fulfill their promise and our workers retire with dignity. 

I believe in an Oregon where every person has the opportunity to shape the future they want for themselves and their families. I know Elizabeth shares this vision. 

I have every confidence in Elizabeth’s ability to face these challenges head on. She has already shown her ability to lead with integrity and compassion. Let us work together and move toward our shared vision: a stronger, healthier Oregon for generations to come. 

Thank you.