Crook County Democrats Announce
Congressional District 2 Candidate Forum

Prineville event will give candidates a platform to share their vision, address community concerns, and answer residents’ questions

Prineville, Ore., March 17, 2026 — Crook County Democrats are pleased to announce an upcoming forum featuring Democratic candidates running in the May 19 primary election. The candidate who prevails in this race will go on to face the Republican primary winner in the fall midterm election. The district, which includes Central, Southern, and Eastern Oregon, is among the largest in the country, encompassing roughly two-thirds of the state.

The forum will take place on April 11 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pine Theater in Prineville.

This event is an important opportunity for Crook County citizens to engage directly with the candidates seeking this critical office.

“This primary election carries significant consequences for our daily lives,” said Brian Samp, Chair, Crook County Democrats. “Our current Representative, Cliff Bentz (R), has a voting record that consistently supports policies that weaken democratic institutions, slow economic growth, roll back protections for public health and the environment, and jeopardize rural healthcare access and Social Security benefits for millions of Americans. He has stated that President Trump is ‘doing exactly what he said he would do when he ran for the job,’ even as those actions further divide our country.”

The forum will be moderated by Laura Cooper. Participating candidates include Chris Beck, Mary Doyle, Rebecca Mueller, Peter Quince, Dawn Rasmussen, and Patty Snow.

About Crook County Democrats

Crook County Democrats are dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for Democrats in local, state, and national elections, as well as for people and organizations that share their values. Their work is guided by a commitment to building an inclusive and equitable community that offers a bright future for all Americans.

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