Editor’s note: Gov. Tina Kotek’s office agreed to respond to written questions for this article but did not provide answers by publication deadline nor two additional deadline extensions. The questions are included below.
As Kotek seeks a second term in the November 2026 election against Republican Christine Drazan, supporters and critics alike are focusing on Kotek's record. Her leadership has been marked by legislative achievements and advocacy, particularly for LGBTQ+ rights.
Kotek’s story began with her coming out as a Lesbian in her early twenties. She has said living openly has shaped her resilience. Her advocacy work started soon thereafter; while earning her graduate degree at the University of Washington, she fought for domestic partnership rights for faculty and students, foreshadowing her later political career.
In 2013, she was elected speaker of the Oregon House, becoming the first openly Lesbian person in the nation to hold that position. She led the chamber for nearly a decade before becoming governor. Throughout her career, her wife, Aimee Kotek Wilson, has supported her and is now Oregon’s First Lady. They have been partners for more than 20 years.
Kotek’s policy work includes several notable initiatives. One of the most significant is House Bill 2002, signed into law in July 2023 and effective as of January 2024. The legislation expanded access to gender-affirming care in Oregon by prohibiting health insurers from denying claims for medically necessary treatments prescribed according to accepted standards of care. Procedures previously considered “cosmetic,” such as facial feminization surgery and laser hair removal, are now covered under Medicaid and private insurance plans. The law also restricts blanket exclusions for gender-affirming care, requires sufficient provider networks, and protects healthcare providers who deliver this care.
Beyond legislation, Kotek has used her platform to promote inclusivity. In June 2024, she issued a proclamation declaring June LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Oregon, emphasizing love, acceptance, and community. She stated that “Pride will always shine brighter than fear ever can,” and expressed her commitment to making Oregon a welcoming state for all residents.
The upcoming election presents a crucial opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community, with possible effects on rights and protections. To learn more, I contacted Gov. Kotek and asked the following questions. Kotek's office promised responses to these questions but after missing the deadline and two additional deadline extensions, no answers were provided.
Frank Gaimari: You were among the first openly Lesbian governors elected in the United States. How would you describe the significance of that milestone after nearly four years in office?
Tina Kotek: No response.
FH: House Bill 2002 expanded insurance requirements for gender-affirming care. What has been the measurable impact of that law since it took effect in January 2024?
TK: No response.
FG: Several states have moved to restrict gender-affirming care. How do you intend to approach Oregon’s existing laws and providers if similar pressures arise here?
TK: No response.
FG: You worked on domestic partnership rights earlier in your career. How does that experience inform your current approach to policy?
TK: No response.
FG: Your wife, Aimee Kotek Wilson, serves as First Lady. How has that partnership factored into your work in office?
TK: No response.
FG: Advocacy groups point to challenges facing LGBTQ+ youth, including bullying, homelessness, and mental health concerns. What specific policies would you pursue in a second term to address them?
TK: No response.
FG: You have been endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign and the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund. How do you view those endorsements in the context of this race?
TK: No response.
FG: This election is a rematch against Christine Drazan and is expected to be close. What do you see as the central issues distinguishing the two campaigns?
TK: No response.
For many LGBTQ+ Oregonians, the race is likely to be closely watched because of its potential impact on state policy. With the rematch expected to be competitive, the November 3 election will determine whether Kotek returns to office for a second term or Oregon voters choose a new direction.
For more information on Tina Kotek, visit her official website at https://www.tinafororegon.com/.
