Mike McLane

Michael R. McLane is an American politician and attorney currently serving as a member of the Oregon State Senate, representing the 30th district. A member of the Republican Party, McLane has a diverse background that includes previous roles as a circuit judge and a member of the Oregon House of Representatives. His career spans various sectors, including law, military service, and public office, reflecting a commitment to both his community and the state of Oregon.

Early life and career

Mike McLane was born in Condon, Oregon, where he completed his high school education at Condon High School in 1983. Following high school, he pursued higher education at Oregon State University, earning a degree in Agricultural Resource Economics in 1987. His academic journey continued at Lewis & Clark Law School, where he obtained a Juris Doctor degree. During his time in law school, McLane gained valuable experience by clerking for Justice W. Michael Gillette at the Oregon Supreme Court, which provided him with insights into the judicial system.

In the early stages of his professional career, McLane worked as a law clerk at the U.S. Attorney's office, where he assisted in various legal proceedings. He also contributed to prosecutions in Multnomah County Circuit Court and federal court, enhancing his legal expertise. McLane's career in law included positions at prominent law firms such as Stoel Rives and Miller Nash. In 2016, he co-founded his own law firm, Lynch, Conger McLane, which allowed him to further his legal practice.

In addition to his legal career, McLane has experience in the judiciary, having served as a circuit judge pro tem in Deschutes County, Oregon. His diverse professional background also includes co-founding a publishing company that produced the Flying Rhino children's book series, which eventually led to the creation of the Flying Rhino Junior High Saturday morning cartoon series.

Legislative service

McLane's political career began when he was elected to the Oregon House of Representatives in 2010. He was re-elected in subsequent elections, serving multiple terms until 2019. During his tenure in the House, he held the position of Republican Leader from January 2013 until January 2019. After the November 2018 elections, he stepped down from this leadership role but continued to serve as a representative.

In 2019, following the retirement of Judge Daniel J. Ahern, McLane was appointed by Governor Kate Brown to the 22nd Circuit Court, which serves Jefferson and Crook Counties. His judicial service lasted until July 1, 2021, when he resigned to return to private legal practice.

In November 2023, McLane announced his candidacy for the Oregon State Senate, seeking to represent the 30th district in the upcoming 2024 election. This opportunity arose after the incumbent senator, Lynn Findley, became ineligible to run for re-election due to his participation in the 2023 Oregon Senate walkout and the subsequent passage of Measure 113, which disqualified any state legislator with ten or more unexcused absences in a legislative session from running for re-election.

McLane successfully navigated the primary election, defeating rancher Douglas Muck and former soil and water district director Robert Neuman. He ran unopposed in the general election and was declared the winner following the November election. In the 2025 legislative session, McLane was appointed as the vice-chair of the Finance and Revenue Committee and co-vice chair of the Joint Committee on Tax Expenditures. Additionally, he was assigned to the Judiciary Committee and the Joint Committees on Legislative Counsel, Ways and Means, and the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Capital Construction.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Oregon State Senate, McLane represents the 30th district, which encompasses a significant portion of Southeastern Oregon. His policy focus reflects the interests and needs of his constituents, emphasizing fiscal responsibility, economic development, and the promotion of agricultural resources. Given his background in agricultural economics, McLane is likely to advocate for policies that support the agricultural sector, which is a vital part of the economy in his district.

McLane's experience in both the legal and judicial systems informs his approach to legislation, particularly in areas related to law and public safety. His tenure in the Oregon House of Representatives and as a circuit judge has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process and the complexities of governance. This experience is expected to influence his contributions to the Senate, particularly in committees focused on finance, revenue, and judiciary matters.

In addition to his legislative work, McLane's military service as a colonel in the Oregon Air National Guard adds another dimension to his public service. His background as an officer in the Oregon Army National Guard and his current role in the Air National Guard demonstrate a commitment to serving his country and community. This military experience may also shape his perspectives on issues related to veterans, defense, and public safety.

McLane resides on a small farm in Powell Butte, near Bend, Oregon, with his wife, Holly, and their three children. His personal life and family background may further inform his legislative priorities, as he seeks to represent the interests of families and communities in his district.

Overall, Mike McLane's career reflects a blend of legal expertise, military service, and public office, positioning him as a significant figure in Oregon's political landscape. His ongoing work in the Oregon State Senate will continue to impact the lives of his constituents in the 30th district and beyond.