Tawna Sanchez
Tawna Dee Sanchez is an American politician, currently serving as a member of the Oregon [House of Representatives]. She represents the 43rd district, which covers parts of north-central Portland.
Early life and education
Sanchez was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. Sanchez is of Shoshone-Bannock, Ute, and Carrizo descent and was the second person of Native American descent elected to serve in the Oregon legislature and the first to represent Portland.Sanchez graduated with a bachelor's degree from Marylhurst University and with a master's degree from Portland State University.
Career
She has worked with the Native American Youth and Family Center for much of her life.Sanchez has served on the Oregon Child Welfare Advisory Commission and the Oregon Family Services Review Commission.
She won election to the House in 2016, narrowly defeating Roberta Phillip-Robbins in the Democratic primary and running unopposed in the general election.
As of 2023 Sanchez is the co-chair of the Oregon legislature's joint Ways and Means committee, along with Senator Elizabeth Steiner.