James Manning

James Manning is an American politician and veteran currently serving as a member of the Oregon State Senate, representing the 7th district. A member of the Democratic Party, Manning has held this office since December 2016. His district encompasses parts of Lane County, including the communities of Junction City and northern Eugene. In addition to his legislative work, Manning has a background in military service and local governance, having previously served on the Eugene Water and Electric Board. He recently announced his candidacy for the position of Secretary of State in the 2024 election.

Early life and career

James Manning's early career was marked by his commitment to public service and law enforcement. Before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1983, he worked as a state correctional officer and police officer. His military career spanned 24 years, during which he served in various capacities and locations, ultimately retiring in 2007. This extensive experience in the military not only shaped his leadership skills but also instilled in him a sense of duty toward his community and country.

Following his retirement from the Army, Manning relocated to Eugene, Oregon. His transition to civilian life included a focus on community involvement and advocacy. He became active in local governance and civil rights issues, notably serving on the Oregon Commission on Black Affairs. This role allowed him to engage with issues affecting the Black community in Oregon and to advocate for policies that promote equity and justice.

In 2012, Manning's political career took a significant step forward when he was elected to the Eugene Water and Electric Board. This position enabled him to contribute to the management of essential services in the region and to gain experience in public administration. His tenure on the board helped establish his reputation as a dedicated public servant committed to the welfare of his constituents.

Legislative service

Manning's entry into the Oregon State Senate came after an unsuccessful bid for the Oregon House of Representatives in 2016, where he lost in the Democratic primary for the 14th district. However, later that year, he was appointed to the Oregon State Senate to fill the vacancy left by Chris Edwards, who resigned from office. This appointment marked the beginning of his legislative career at the state level.

In 2018, Manning successfully ran for a full term in the Senate, winning his election unopposed. He continued to build on his legislative work in the 2022 election, securing re-election and affirming his position as a representative of the 7th district. Throughout his time in the Senate, Manning has focused on various legislative initiatives, particularly those aimed at enhancing voter access and election security.

Manning has been a proponent of automatic voter registration in Oregon, supporting efforts to streamline the voting process and make it more accessible to all citizens. He has also advocated for the authorization of prepaid envelopes for the state's mail-in voting system, reflecting his commitment to ensuring that all voters can participate in elections without unnecessary barriers. These initiatives align with his broader goals of promoting civic engagement and protecting the integrity of the electoral process.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Oregon State Senate, Manning represents a diverse constituency in the 7th district, which includes parts of Lane County. His district encompasses urban areas, such as northern Eugene, as well as more rural communities like Junction City. This diversity influences his policy priorities and legislative focus, as he seeks to address the unique needs and concerns of his constituents.

Manning's policy focus extends beyond electoral issues. He has been involved in discussions surrounding civil rights, public safety, and community development. His background as a veteran and law enforcement officer informs his approach to public safety, as he advocates for policies that balance community needs with effective law enforcement practices.

In September 2023, Manning announced his candidacy for the position of Secretary of State in the upcoming 2024 election. His campaign has emphasized the importance of increasing funding for election security, highlighting his commitment to protecting the electoral process and supporting election workers. However, he faced significant challenges during the campaign, particularly in fundraising, trailing behind his opponent, the current state treasurer.

In addition to his electoral pursuits, Manning's career has not been without controversy. In July 2025, a federal civil rights lawsuit was filed against him in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, naming him among the defendants. The lawsuit alleges constitutional violations in Eugene, Oregon, and remains pending as of the latest publicly available court filings.

Through his legislative service and community involvement, Manning has established himself as a prominent figure in Oregon politics, advocating for policies that reflect the needs of his constituents while navigating the complexities of public service. His experiences as a veteran, public servant, and community advocate continue to shape his approach to governance and his commitment to the people of Oregon.