Hicks and Krause to Face Off in District 3 Election
Candidates will compete for the Oregon State Senate seat in November 2026.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Elections
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Republican and Libertarian nominee Brad Hicks will face Democrat Denise Krause in the November 2026 election for Oregon State Senate District 3. The seat is open following the decision of incumbent Jeff Golden not to seek reelection.
Why it matters
The outcome of this race is a top priority for the Oregon Republican Party, as a win could end the state Senate supermajority. The district has become a key battleground for control of the chamber.
The race features three candidates: Brad Hicks, Denise Krause, and independent Clay Bearnson. This is an open seat race following the retirement of the incumbent senator.
The players
Brad Hicks
He is the Republican and Libertarian candidate for the Senate District 3 seat who previously led the Chamber of Medford and Jackson County.
Denise Krause
She is the Democratic candidate for the District 3 seat and previously ran for a position on the Jackson County Commission.
Jeff Golden
He is the outgoing incumbent Senator who declined to seek reelection for the District 3 seat.
Clay Bearnson
He is an independent and Green Party candidate vying for the District 3 seat.
The details
Brad Hicks, a former CEO of the Chamber of Medford and Jackson County, is running alongside Denise Krause, who previously campaigned for the Jackson County Commission. The district, located in Southern Oregon, is currently contested by both major parties aiming to influence the state's legislative balance.
Timeline
Hicks concluded his 22-year tenure at the local Chamber in 2021.
Krause ran for the Jackson County Commission two years ago.
The election for the State Senate seat occurs in November 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of the Republican effort argue that the current supermajority is essential for maintaining stability in state policy. Conversely, supporters of the shift claim that ending the supermajority is necessary to provide more diverse legislative representation.
Residents in District 3 will see an increase in campaign activity as parties compete to flip the seat. The result of this election will determine if the legislature shifts its power balance, potentially impacting state-level policy decisions that affect all taxpayers.
The takeaway
Voters in Southern Oregon are encouraged to review the platform of each candidate before the November 2026 election. Understanding the policy differences between the candidates is essential for assessing the future direction of the Oregon State Senate.
What happens next
The legislative election for the State Senate District 3 seat is officially scheduled to take place in November 2026.
Further reading
For additional context on the legislative landscape, visit the Oregon Elections section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KDRV - TV.
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