Annessa Hartman

Annessa Hartman is an American politician and activist currently serving as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives, representing the 40th district. A member of the Democratic Party, she was elected to her position in November 2022 and officially took office on January 9, 2023. Hartman has a diverse background in the hospitality industry, event planning, and community service, which has informed her legislative priorities and engagement with her constituents.

Early life and career

Annessa Hartman was educated at the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Pasadena, California, where she earned an associate of arts degree in hotel and restaurant management. This educational background laid the foundation for her early career in the hospitality sector. From 2008 to 2016, Hartman worked in catering, gaining experience in various roles across Los Angeles and Concord, California. Her work in this field provided her with valuable skills in event management and customer service, which would later influence her professional trajectory.

In 2016, Hartman relocated to Portland, Oregon, where she continued her career as an event planner at Portland Center Stage, a prominent theater company. This role allowed her to further develop her organizational and planning skills while engaging with the local arts community. Following her time at Portland Center Stage, she worked as the catering director at Eurest USA and as a sales manager at Marriott from 2018 to 2020. These positions contributed to her understanding of business operations and customer relations in the hospitality industry.

In 2020, Hartman transitioned to a role that emphasized community engagement and support. She became the marketplace and retail coordinator for the Native American Youth and Family Center, where she worked until 2022. This position involved coordinating resources and services for Native American families, highlighting her commitment to social justice and community advocacy. Additionally, Hartman serves as a chapter director at Unite Oregon, an organization focused on promoting equity and inclusion across various communities in the state.

Hartman's political career began in 2020 when she was elected to the Gladstone City Council. This experience provided her with insights into local governance and the legislative process, paving the way for her subsequent election to the Oregon House of Representatives. Her journey from local government to state legislature reflects her dedication to public service and her desire to effect change at a broader level.

Legislative service

Annessa Hartman was elected to the Oregon House of Representatives in November 2022, representing the 40th district. She officially assumed office on January 9, 2023. As a member of the Democratic Party, Hartman has aligned herself with the party's values and priorities, focusing on issues that resonate with her constituents and reflect her own experiences and advocacy work.

During her time in the legislature, Hartman has been involved in various discussions and debates on key issues affecting her district and the state of Oregon. Her background in community service and local government has informed her approach to legislation, emphasizing the importance of grassroots engagement and collaboration with constituents. Hartman has actively participated in legislative sessions, contributing to discussions on a range of topics, including social justice, public health, and community development.

In a notable instance, Hartman voted against a contentious transportation bill during a special session. This decision highlighted her willingness to take a stand on issues she believes are critical to her constituents, even in the face of potential political repercussions. Following this vote, she announced that she would not seek re-election in 2026 due to health concerns, specifically her diagnosis of cervical cancer, which she received in October 2025. This announcement underscores the personal challenges she faces while serving in public office and her commitment to transparency regarding her health.

Policy focus and district

As a legislator, Annessa Hartman has focused on a variety of policy areas that reflect her commitment to social equity and community well-being. Her experiences as a survivor of sexual assault and domestic violence have informed her advocacy for policies that support victims and promote safety within communities. Hartman's personal history has driven her to prioritize issues related to public health, social services, and community support systems.

Representing the 40th district in Oregon, Hartman is attuned to the unique needs and concerns of her constituents. Her work with the Native American Youth and Family Center has equipped her with insights into the challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly those of Native American descent. This experience has likely influenced her legislative priorities, as she seeks to address systemic inequalities and advocate for policies that uplift underrepresented voices.

In addition to her focus on social justice, Hartman has also engaged with issues related to economic development and community resilience. Her background in the hospitality and event planning sectors has provided her with a nuanced understanding of the local economy, particularly in the context of recovery and growth following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hartman’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community is evident in her legislative efforts and community engagement initiatives.

Overall, Annessa Hartman's journey from the hospitality industry to the Oregon House of Representatives illustrates her dedication to public service and advocacy. Her legislative work is shaped by her personal experiences and professional background, making her a representative who is deeply connected to the issues facing her constituents. As she continues her service in the Oregon legislature, Hartman's focus on social equity, community support, and economic development remains central to her mission as a public servant.