Oregon is now ranked among the worst states in the nation for homelessness, child homelessness, and illicit drug use. In this eye-opening episode of Oregon D.O.G.E., State Senator Mike McLane and Representative Darcy Edwards unpack the heartbreaking realities behind the statistics—and the government’s costly but ineffective response.
With lived experience navigating addiction in her own family, Rep. Edwards brings a raw, human perspective to the discussion. She describes Oregon’s “low-barrier” addiction policies as not just flawed but deeply uncompassionate. “Letting someone roll around in the street is not compassion,” she states.
Together with legislative staffer Alex Lopez, the trio breaks down Oregon’s multi-billion-dollar spending on homelessness and addiction. Key takeaways include:
- Oregon ranks 1st in child homelessness and illicit drug use, and 4th in total homelessness.
- Fentanyl overdoses are surging statewide, from Portland to Seaside and beyond.
- State programs prioritize spending and bureaucracy over results—with no follow-up metrics for success.
- Legislation like HB 2432, aimed at rolling back harmful camping laws, failed—despite growing bipartisan concern.
Rep. Edwards and Sen. McLane argue that meaningful solutions must involve both accountability and structure—pointing to states like Oklahoma that spend significantly less but achieve far better outcomes.
This episode is a wake-up call for every Oregonian. The numbers don’t lie, and neither do the families impacted. Tune in to hear what’s really going on, and why it’s time to reject the “pixie dust” theory of governance and demand real results.