Biography
Maxine Elizabeth Dexter, M.D., born on December 5, 1972, in Bothell, Washington, is a Democratic politician and physician serving as the U.S. Representative for Oregon's 3rd Congressional District since January 3, 2025. She grew up in a working-class family and became the first in her family to graduate from college. Dexter began her medical career as a pulmonologist and critical care physician at Kaiser Permanente in Hillsboro, Oregon. She also served as the first woman Chair of the Board of Directors at Northwest Permanente.
Education
-
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communication, University of Washington
-
Doctor of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine
Political Experience
-
Oregon House of Representatives: Appointed in June 2020 to represent the 33rd district, succeeding Mitch Greenlick. Elected in 2020 and re-elected in 2022. Served as Chair of the House Housing and Homelessness Committee, leading efforts to pass a $200 million spending bill addressing housing and homelessness issues.
-
U.S. House of Representatives: Elected in November 2024 to represent Oregon's 3rd Congressional District, succeeding Earl Blumenauer. Sworn into office on January 3, 2025.
Notable Achievements
-
Opioid Harm Reduction Legislation: Introduced and championed legislation expanding access to naloxone and decriminalizing fentanyl test strips, signed into law on August 8, 2023.
-
Housing and Homelessness Initiatives: As Chair of the House Housing and Homelessness Committee, led the passage of a $200 million spending package to address housing and homelessness crises in Oregon.
-
Reproductive Rights Advocacy: Supported legislation protecting medical professionals from prosecution for providing abortions or gender-affirming care, reinforcing Oregon's commitment to reproductive rights.
In Congress, Representative Dexter continues to focus on healthcare access, climate change, and safeguarding democracy, bringing her medical expertise and data-driven approach to legislative processes.
