Jami Cate

Jami Cate is an American politician and farmer affiliated with the Republican Party, currently serving as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives. She represents the 11th district, which encompasses parts of Linn County and Marion County, including the cities of Lebanon, Sweet Home, and Jefferson. Cate has been in office since January 2021, having first been elected to the legislature in 2020. Her background as a farmer and her involvement in local issues have shaped her political career and legislative priorities.

Early life and career

Jami Cate was born around 1986 or 1987 and is a fifth-generation farmer from Linn County, Oregon. She grew up on a family farm located north of Lebanon, where her family's agricultural roots have significantly influenced her life and career. This deep connection to farming and rural life has provided her with firsthand experience of the challenges and opportunities faced by those in the agricultural sector.

Cate pursued higher education at Oregon State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Crop and Soil Science. This academic background has equipped her with knowledge relevant to agricultural practices and policies, which she has drawn upon in her legislative work. Her education and upbringing in a farming family have played a crucial role in shaping her perspectives on land use, agricultural policy, and rural community development.

Before entering politics, Cate was actively involved in farming, which has been a significant aspect of her identity. Her experience in agriculture has allowed her to understand the needs of her constituents, particularly those involved in farming and related industries. This connection to her community has been a cornerstone of her political narrative, as she seeks to represent the interests of rural Oregonians.

Legislative service

Jami Cate's political career began in earnest when she announced her candidacy for the Oregon House of Representatives in 2020. This decision came after the incumbent representative, Sherrie Springer, chose to step down in order to pursue a position on the Linn County commission. Cate entered a competitive Republican primary for the 17th district, where she emerged victorious with a plurality of the votes, securing approximately 26.6% of the total in a crowded field. Her primary victory was marked by a narrow margin, as she defeated her closest competitor by just 34 votes.

Following her success in the primary, Cate advanced to the general election, where she faced Democratic candidate Paige Hook. She won the election and officially took office in January 2021. Cate's tenure began during a challenging period marked by the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and various legislative priorities that emerged in response to the crisis.

In 2022, Oregon underwent a redistricting process that resulted in changes to legislative boundaries. As a result, Cate found herself drawn into the newly established 11th district. She opted to run for re-election in this new district and successfully defeated her opponent, Mary Cooke, in the November general election. This victory reaffirmed her position as a significant figure in Oregon's political landscape.

Looking ahead, Cate has expressed her intention to continue her political career beyond the House of Representatives. In July 2025, she announced her candidacy for the Oregon Senate's 6th district, signaling her ambition to expand her influence within the state's legislative framework.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Oregon House of Representatives, Jami Cate has focused on various policy issues that resonate with her constituents in the 11th district. Her background in agriculture informs her legislative priorities, particularly in areas related to farming, land use, and rural development. Cate advocates for policies that support the agricultural community, recognizing the vital role that farming plays in the economy and culture of Oregon.

In addition to agricultural issues, Cate has engaged with broader legislative matters, including those related to public safety, education, and economic development. Her approach often reflects the values and concerns of her constituents, emphasizing the importance of local input in the legislative process. Cate's commitment to representing the interests of her district is evident in her participation in community events and her responsiveness to constituent feedback.

One notable aspect of Cate's political stance is her support for law enforcement and public safety initiatives. Following significant events, such as the Standoff at Eagle Pass, she publicly expressed her support for actions taken by other state leaders, indicating her alignment with certain national and state-level policies.

Cate's district, which includes parts of Linn County and Marion County, is characterized by a mix of rural and suburban communities. The cities of Lebanon, Sweet Home, and Jefferson are central to her constituency, each with unique needs and challenges. As a representative, Cate aims to address these local issues while also contributing to statewide discussions on policy and governance.

In summary, Jami Cate's journey from a fifth-generation farmer to a state legislator reflects her deep-rooted connection to her community and her commitment to serving the interests of her constituents. Her legislative service, marked by her election to the Oregon House of Representatives and her focus on agricultural and rural issues, positions her as a significant figure in Oregon politics. As she prepares for future electoral challenges, including her candidacy for the Oregon Senate, Cate continues to navigate the complexities of public service while advocating for the needs of her district.