Dirk VanderHart
Dirk VanderHart covers Oregon politics and government for OPB. Before barging onto the radio in 2018, he spent more than a decade as a newspaper reporter—much of that time reporting on city government for the Portland Mercury. He’s also had stints covering chicanery in Southwest Missouri, the wilds of Ohio in Ohio, and all things Texas on Capitol Hill.
Dirk’s byline has appeared in USA Today, The New York Times, The Houston Chronicle, The Columbus Dispatch, The Oregonian, and more. He’s got a journalism degree from Michigan State University.
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Hundreds of bills passed in the first half of 2025 take effect New Year’s Day. -
The state Department of Justice says the Trump administration hasn’t met key requirements. -
Republicans who have blocked new tax revenues now argue emergency funds might be necessary. -
The submission will likely ensure a gas tax increase approved by Oregon lawmakers this year doesn’t take effect. -
This comes after a judge last month ordered the Coast Guard to return the helicopter immediately while a lawsuit challenging its abrupt removal proceeds. -
The governor has unveiled a “prosperity roadmap” that aims to juice the state’s economy. -
A federal defense contractor is seeking hundreds of coastal Oregon hotel rooms, City of Newport saysIt’s just one recent sign that interest over an immigrant detention facility on the coast hasn’t faded. -
A recent $3 million donation to back GOP candidates is the largest single contribution by an individual in state history. -
A federal judge ordered the U.S. Coast Guard to return Newport’s rescue helicopter, citing safety risks as lawsuits challenge its sudden removal during crabbing season. -
Newport residents unite after the Coast Guard helicopter vanishes and ICE detention rumors grow, raising safety fears for crabbers and immigrant families.
