Biography
Val Hoyle, born on February 14, 1964, in Fairfield, California, is a Democratic politician representing Oregon's 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives since January 3, 2023. She succeeded Peter DeFazio, who retired after 18 terms.
Raised in Nashua, New Hampshire, Hoyle's father was a firefighter and union official, instilling in her a strong commitment to public service. Before entering politics, she spent 25 years in the private sector, focusing on retail sales and international trade in the outdoor industry.
Hoyle resides in Springfield, Oregon, with her husband, Stephen, and their two adult children.
Education
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Bunker Hill Community College: Attended from 1986 to 1988.
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Emmanuel College, Boston: Earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1992.
Political Experience
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Oregon House of Representatives: Appointed in 2009 to represent District 14, covering West Eugene and Junction City. Elected to full terms in 2010, 2012, and 2014. Served as House Majority Leader from 2013 to 2015.
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Oregon Labor Commissioner: Elected in 2018, overseeing enforcement of wage and hour laws, civil rights protections, and apprenticeship programs until 2023.
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U.S. House of Representatives: Elected in 2022 to represent Oregon's 4th Congressional District. During her tenure, she has focused on securing federal funds for wildfire prevention, emergency communications, and infrastructure projects in Oregon.
Notable Achievements
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Legislative Initiatives: As a state legislator, Hoyle led efforts to increase Oregon's minimum wage, provide paid sick leave, expand the Clean Fuels program to reduce carbon emissions, require universal background checks for firearm purchases, and implement the "Motor Voter" law to expand ballot access.
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Labor Advocacy: As Labor Commissioner, she expanded the Oregon Family Leave Act and increased settlements for victims of discrimination.
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Congressional Committees: In Congress, Hoyle serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Hoyle's career reflects a consistent dedication to advocating for working families, labor rights, and environmental sustainability.
