Representative Lesly Muñoz

Lesly Muñoz is a Democratic politician serving in the Oregon House of Representatives, representing District 22. She assumed office on January 13, 2025, with her current term set to end on January 11, 2027.

Muñoz is the daughter of Mexican immigrants who came to the United States seeking better economic and educational opportunities. Her father worked as a landscaper and laborer, while her mother held multiple jobs including work as an instructional assistant in public schools, a house cleaner, babysitter, and library employee. These formative experiences shaped her commitment to workers' rights and social advocacy.

She won her election in a closely contested race, defeating incumbent Republican Tracy Cramer by just 161 votes in the 2024 general election. This victory was particularly significant as it allowed Democrats to reclaim the three-fifths supermajority in both the Oregon House and Senate that they had lost in 2022. Her district encompasses parts of Marion County, including Hayesville, Gervais, Woodburn, and portions of Keizer and Salem.

Beyond her legislative duties, Muñoz is known for her active involvement in community initiatives and her dedication to empowering underrepresented groups. As a working mother of four, she remains committed to addressing issues affecting working families and building stronger communities.

Education and Professional Background

Muñoz holds a Bachelor of Arts from Portland State University and a Bachelor of Science from Mt. Sierra College. Her educational background reflects her commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Her career has been centered on labor organizing and education advocacy. She has served as a UniServ Consultant and Education Advocate for the Oregon Education Association. Previously, she worked as a Council Representative for AFSCME, an Organizer for the Oregon School Employees Association, and a Field Representative for OSEA.

Political Experience and Priorities

Before her election to the state legislature, Muñoz held leadership positions in community organizations, serving as Vice President of the CAUSA Board and Vice President of the KBOO Radio Board.

Her legislative priorities focus on reducing daily costs for families, expanding access to affordable housing, reducing homelessness, addressing mental and behavioral health crises, fully funding public schools, ensuring access to clean drinking water, and defending women's reproductive rights. Throughout her career, she has championed better working conditions, higher wages, and dignity in the workplace for school staff, healthcare workers, and other essential service providers.