Ben Westlund

Bernard John "Ben" Westlund II was an American politician who served in the Oregon Legislative Assembly and later held the office of State Treasurer. Born on September 3, 1949, in Long Beach, California, Westlund's political career spanned several years and included service as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives and the Oregon Senate. Initially elected as a Republican, he later became an Independent and finally a Democrat. His legislative work was marked by significant involvement in budgetary matters and social issues, reflecting a complex political evolution throughout his career.

Early life and career

Ben Westlund was born in Long Beach, California, and moved to Oregon during his teenage years. He completed his secondary education at Oregon Episcopal School in 1967 before pursuing higher education at Whitman College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in education and history. Westlund also engaged in some graduate studies at the University of Oregon. In 1974, he relocated to Central Oregon, settling near Bend, where he managed a ranch alongside his wife, Libby, and their two children, B.J. and Taylor.

Westlund's early life included challenges that shaped his later perspectives. In 1982, he faced legal issues related to drunk driving and possession of cocaine, an experience he credited with prompting him to stop drinking. This incident would later connect him with Rep. John Minnis, the officer who arrested him, as they both served in the Oregon Legislature together.

Before entering politics, Westlund worked as a business analyst and was involved in various industries, including mining, ranching, and agriculture. His diverse professional background provided him with a unique perspective on the economic issues facing Oregonians, which would influence his legislative priorities.

Legislative service

Westlund's political career began in earnest in 1996 when he was elected to the Oregon House of Representatives as a Republican. He served in this capacity until 2006, during which he was known for his work on the budget-writing Joint Ways and Means Committee, a role he assumed in 2001. His tenure in the House was marked by efforts to address budget shortfalls, including a notable proposal for a state sales tax to stabilize finances during a revenue crisis. This proposal, however, did not gain sufficient traction.

In addition to his budgetary work, Westlund co-sponsored legislation to establish the Oregon Cultural Trust, a significant initiative aimed at supporting the arts and culture in the state. His involvement with the Cultural Trust led to some controversy when he sought to lead the organization, but he remained on its board until he was elected State Treasurer.

In 2003, Westlund was appointed to the Oregon Senate to fill the vacancy left by retiring Senator Bev Clarno. He subsequently won election to the Senate seat in 2004, representing District 27, which encompasses much of Deschutes County, including Bend. His Senate career was characterized by a focus on both fiscal responsibility and social issues.

During the 2004 election cycle, Westlund endorsed Ballot Measure 36, which aimed to prohibit same-sex marriage in Oregon. However, after learning that the research supporting the measure was flawed, he publicly expressed regret for his support and later sponsored legislation to allow civil unions. This bill faced opposition and was ultimately defeated, although civil union legislation would eventually be passed in 2007.

Westlund's legislative record also included a complex stance on reproductive rights. He identified as pro-choice and supported access to emergency contraception, yet he also backed certain restrictions on abortion during his time in office. His support for legislation that would impose waiting periods and parental notification requirements reflected a nuanced approach to the issue, which drew both support and criticism from various constituents.

Policy focus and district

Throughout his legislative career, Westlund's policy focus encompassed a range of issues pertinent to his constituents in Central Oregon. His work on the Joint Ways and Means Committee underscored his commitment to fiscal management and budgetary oversight, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty. His advocacy for the Oregon Cultural Trust highlighted his recognition of the importance of arts and culture in enhancing the quality of life for Oregonians.

Westlund's shift from the Republican Party to becoming an Independent and later a Democrat illustrated his evolving political philosophy and responsiveness to the changing political landscape in Oregon. His decision to run for governor in 2006 as an Independent, although ultimately withdrawn, signified his desire to engage with a broader electorate and address pressing state issues.

In 2008, Westlund was elected as Oregon's State Treasurer, marking a significant achievement in his political career. His election was notable for being cross-nominated by the Independent Party of Oregon, reflecting his appeal across party lines. As State Treasurer, he continued to focus on fiscal responsibility and the management of state resources.

Westlund's health challenges became a significant aspect of his life and career. He was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2003, undergoing various treatments, including surgery and chemotherapy. Despite periods of remission, he ultimately succumbed to the disease on March 7, 2010, while still in office. His passing marked the end of a multifaceted political career characterized by a commitment to public service and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of his constituents.