Shelly Davis

Shelly Boshart Davis is a Republican politician currently serving as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives for District 15. She represents portions of Linn and Benton counties, including the cities of Albany, Millersburg, and Tangent. In addition to her legislative role, she is a small business owner and has been actively involved in various agricultural and community organizations.

Early life and career

Shelly Boshart Davis was born on January 8, 1980, and grew up in the Mid-Willamette Valley, where she was raised on her family's farm. This upbringing instilled in her a strong connection to agricultural practices and rural community values. She pursued higher education at Oregon State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. This academic background has contributed to her understanding of business operations and economic development, which she has applied in her professional and political endeavors.

In 2018, Boshart Davis, alongside her business partner Macey Wessels, acquired Boshart Trucking from her parents. This venture not only highlights her entrepreneurial spirit but also her commitment to continuing her family's legacy in the trucking industry. Her involvement in the business sector has provided her with insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by small businesses in Oregon.

Boshart Davis has also engaged in various community service roles. She has been an active member of the Government Affairs Committee for the Albany Chamber of Commerce, where she has worked to advocate for local businesses and economic growth. Her commitment to community service is further demonstrated by her previous role on the board of the local United Way, an organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities.

In 2016, she was appointed to the Linn County Budget Committee, where she contributed to the financial planning and resource allocation for the county. Her involvement in this committee reflects her interest in local governance and fiscal responsibility. Additionally, she is affiliated with several agricultural organizations, including the Linn County Farm Bureau, Oregon Women for Agriculture, Oregon Trucking Association, and Oregon Seed Council. These affiliations underscore her dedication to supporting the agricultural sector, which is a significant part of Oregon's economy.

On a national level, Boshart Davis has held leadership positions, including serving as president of the U.S. Forage Export Council. She has also participated in the Agriculture Transportation Coalition's advisory committee, where she has contributed to discussions on transportation issues affecting the agricultural industry. Her commitment to agricultural education is evident through her involvement with Oregon Aglink, a nonprofit organization focused on promoting agricultural literacy, and her volunteer work with local schools through the Adopt-A-Farmer program.

Legislative service

Boshart Davis's political career began when she announced her candidacy for the Oregon House of Representatives after the incumbent, Andy Olson, decided not to seek re-election for an eighth term. With Olson's endorsement, she ran an unopposed primary election campaign, which allowed her to secure the Republican nomination for District 15. In November 2018, she successfully defeated her opponents, a Democrat and an Independent candidate, to become the representative for House District 15.

She officially took office on January 15, 2019, as a member of the 80th Oregon Legislative Assembly. Since assuming her role, Boshart Davis has been an active participant in various legislative committees. She serves on the House Committee on Business and Labor, where she engages in discussions and decision-making processes related to business regulations and labor issues. Additionally, she is a member of the House Committee on Agriculture and Land Use, reflecting her strong ties to the agricultural community and her commitment to addressing issues pertinent to this sector.

Boshart Davis is also involved in the Joint Committee on Carbon Reduction, which focuses on strategies to address climate change and its impacts on Oregon's environment and economy. Her participation in this committee indicates her engagement with contemporary environmental issues and the legislative measures aimed at promoting sustainability.

Policy focus and district

As a representative of District 15, Boshart Davis's policy focus is closely aligned with the interests and needs of her constituents, who primarily reside in Linn and Benton counties. The district encompasses urban areas, such as Albany, as well as rural communities, which presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Boshart Davis's background in agriculture and small business positions her to advocate effectively for policies that support economic development, agricultural sustainability, and community well-being.

Her legislative priorities often reflect the concerns of her district, particularly in areas related to business growth, land use, and agricultural practices. Boshart Davis has been involved in initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic viability of the agricultural sector, which is a cornerstone of the local economy. She advocates for policies that promote fair regulations and support for farmers and small business owners.

In addition to her focus on agriculture and business, Boshart Davis is committed to addressing broader issues affecting her constituents, including education, public safety, and infrastructure development. Her involvement in various community organizations and committees has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the needs and aspirations of the residents in her district.

Boshart Davis's legislative journey has not been without challenges. In July 2025, a federal civil rights complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, naming her as one of the defendants. The lawsuit alleges that she acted under color of law to deprive an individual of their First Amendment rights. As of the latest available information, the case remains pending, and it highlights the complexities and scrutiny that public officials may face during their tenure.

Overall, Shelly Boshart Davis continues to serve as a prominent figure in Oregon's political landscape, representing the interests of her constituents while navigating the responsibilities and challenges of legislative service. Her background in agriculture and business, combined with her commitment to community engagement, shapes her approach to governance and policy-making in the Oregon House of Representatives.