Governor Kate Brown has appointed former state legislator from Redmond Bev Clarno as Oregon’s Secretary of State. During her tenure, Clarno served as Speaker of the House and Senate Republican Leader, and she was also appointed by President George W. Bush as Director for Region 10 of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“Bev’s career is marked by her trailblazing spirit, focus on fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to Oregonians,” said Governor Brown. “Bev’s experience as a legislator and as a manager of a large government organization is key to the success of the programs and employees the Secretary of State oversees. I’m confident that Bev will continue the legacy of accountability and integrity that Secretary Richardson left on the office of Secretary of State."
“I'm honored by the confidence that Governor Brown has placed in me and pledge to be a good steward of the office. I know there is not a Republican way or a Democrat way to oversee elections—there is only a fair and honest way. There is not a Republican way or a Democrat way to audit state agencies, there is only a fair, thorough, and honest way. I will administer the key functions of this office in a way that will earn the trust and faith of all Oregonians,” said Clarno.
Clarno had been a hog farmer and cattle rancher, real estate broker and appraiser among other occupations before her election in 1988 to the Oregon House of Representatives. She was re-elected three times, and served as Speaker of the House from 1995 to 1997. She was elected to the Oregon State Senate in 2000, and served as Senate Republican Leader in the 2003 session. During that 2003 session, the Oregon Senate had a 15-15 Republican-Democrat split.
A dedicated community volunteer, she has served on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Oregon Historical Society, the Maryhill Museum, Deschutes River Conservancy Board, the Deschutes County Fair and Expo, the Central Oregon Community College Foundation, and the Redmond Chamber of Commerce.
Clarno will take the oath of office over the next several days, and she will be sworn in ceremonially the week of April 1.