Javadi Seeks House Seat as Democrat in Close Oregon Coastal Race

State legislative races in Oregon often hinge on local issues, but the contest in House District 32 has attracted attention for a different reason.

Cyrus Javadi, who has served as a Republican representative for two terms, is now running as a Democrat. This shift has made his bid one of the most scrutinized elections in state politics this year.

The district covers the coastline from Astoria to Neskowin. Javadi, who is 49, changed his party registration after providing the deciding vote for a transportation package that included a 6-cent gas tax increase. He explained that new funding was essential to repair roads damaged by wind and rain.

Max Sherman, a 69-year-old farmer and retired teacher from Hebo, is the Republican opponent. Sherman highlights his background in agriculture, fishing, and forestry as key to the region's economy. His campaign focuses on cutting regulations and opposing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Sherman also criticizes Javadi for changing his stance, noting that many locals have lost trust in him.

Local party dynamics are complicated. Lisa Lamping, chair of the Clatsop County Republicans, who helped elect Javadi previously, now calls him an opportunist. She notes that local Republican reactions range from anger to relief. Betsy Johnson, a former legislator, has also endorsed Sherman in television ads.

Financially, the race is intense. Both candidates have raised over $1 million, potentially making this the state's most expensive House race. This funding allows them to buy ads in the Portland market, which reaches the district. Sherman describes the contest as a total toss-up that could be very close.

Javadi frames his party switch as a natural evolution. He grew up in a conservative Mormon family in Utah and found Republican arguments less convincing over time. He cited his gay son when supporting a bill to make it harder for school districts to ban books. He was the only Republican to support the governor's $4.3 billion transportation plan, believing the long-term benefits outweighed the costs.

Voters rejected that specific tax package in May by a large margin. Javadi maintains that the state needs more road money but believes voters want repairs without the gas tax increase. He reports that the vote rarely comes up during his door-to-door canvassing, where he may speak with 30 or 40 people in a single day.

His campaign emphasizes that he stands by his values. Some Democrats, including self-described liberals in Tillamook, have welcomed his switch. Javadi uses artificial intelligence primarily as an editing tool for his detailed Substack posts explaining his position changes. He plans to continue canvassing until Election Day.