Cliff Bentz

Cliff Bentz is a Republican politician and attorney serving as the U.S. Representative for Oregon's 2nd congressional district since 2021. Raised on family cattle ranches in Harney County, he attended Eastern Oregon State College, graduating cum laude before earning his Juris Doctor from Lewis and Clark Law School in 1977. Before entering public office, Bentz practiced law for over 30 years, specializing in water law and property rights, and managed his own agricultural and real estate interests. His early public service included membership on the Oregon Water Resources Commission and the Ontario school board. Bentz began his legislative career in 2008 with an appointment to the Oregon House of Representatives, where he served until 2018 before moving to the Oregon State Senate. In 2020, he was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives to succeed the retiring Greg Walden. In Congress, he serves on the House Committee on the Judiciary and the House Committee on Natural Resources, where he holds the position of Chairman of the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries. His legislative work frequently focuses on federal land management, irrigation issues, and rural economic sustainability.

Bentz maintains a conservative policy platform focused on the interests of rural communities and agricultural producers. He is a vocal advocate for active forest management and increased timber harvests to reduce wildfire risks, and he strongly defends the protection of water rights for irrigation and ranching. Regarding the economy, he supports tax reductions, deregulation, and fiscal restraint, often opposing large-scale federal spending bills. On immigration, Bentz emphasizes the necessity of enhanced border security and has supported the completion of a border wall. His healthcare positions center on opposing government-run systems in favor of market-based reforms and improving medical access in rural areas. Additionally, he supports domestic energy production including hydropower, holds pro-life views, and is a supporter of Second Amendment rights.