Jen Baires

Races that could remake Central Oregon politics draw a competitive pool of candidates.

William Bailey, a once-rising star in the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, has been fired. Bailey, who was fired last week, saw his 25-year career ascension at Central Oregon’s largest law enforcement agency take a sharp downward turn after he unsuccessfully ran for sheriff in 2024. In the wake of that loss, Bailey criticized the newly-elected leader on a local radio show — remarks that ultimately led to his dismissal.

The Bend Curling Club just scored a $500,000 donation toward plans for a dedicated facility.

If voter-approved, the map would divide the county commission into 5 representational districts.

Thousands of homes were threatened by fire in Central Oregon and nearly all survived.

Without a state-mandated tax base, some rural first responders work unpaid.

Driven by high food prices and ethical concerns, some Oregonians use social networks to find their next meal.