After a three-month, nationwide search, Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan announced today the hiring of Deborah Scroggin as the new Oregon Elections Director.

Scroggin joins the Secretary of State’s office after nearly a decade with the Portland City Auditor’s Office where she oversaw city elections, the lobbying and political consultant program, and business operations.

“Deborah is the right person at the right time. Her leadership will steer the Oregon Elections Division in their ongoing work to ensure Oregonians have faith in our elections system,” Secretary Fagan said. “Deborah’s dedication to fairness and access for all Oregon voters is without question, and I am proud to have her on our team.”

A recent survey has shown an ongoing need to build confidence and trust in Oregon’s election system.

Scroggin was selected after a national search, and a rigorous interview process which included representatives from the Oregon Association of County Clerks.

“It is an honor to join the Secretary of State’s office and lead the dedicated professionals within the Elections Division,” Scroggin said. “After a period of turnover and transition, I am eager to build stability and guide the team through modernization efforts to improve elections for every Oregonian. It is a pivotal time for elections in this country. Together with the 36 county clerks across Oregon, we will continue the hard work to ensure Oregon’s elections are a model for the nation.”

Scroggin, who has a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Oregon and a master’s degree in public administration from the Portland State University, first joined the Portland City Auditor’s Office in 2012 as the Elections Officer for the City of Portland. She has most recently served as the Programs and Operations Supervisor.

Scroggin takes over the position from Interim Elections Director Brenda Bayes. Bayes, who previously served more than 20 years in the Elections Division, including as the Deputy Elections Director, temporarily rejoined the agency from retirement beginning in January to lead through the transition.

“I want to thank Brenda for her willingness to come back into public service and for her steady leadership and commitment to the agency and division,” Secretary Fagan said. “She has been a critical component to a smooth transition over the last several months.”

--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2021-04-30 12:25:40

Last Update: 2021-04-30 12:42:57