Oregon Rep. Chavez-DeRemer Slams, then Praises Infrastructure Law
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- Republican Lori Chavez-DeRemer initially criticized the $1.2 trillion infrastructure law, believing it would not benefit communities.
- Upon becoming a representative, Chavez-DeRemer has praised the law and the billions in Oregon-specific investments.
- Despite initial objection, she now supports and credits the law for securing significant funding for state projects.
Lori Chavez-DeRemer's Stance on Infrastructure Law Shifts as Oregon Representative
In 2022, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, a Republican candidate, criticized the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure law, claiming it would return only "pennies on the dollar" to communities. However, as the U.S. representative of Oregon’s 5th Congressional District, Chavez-DeRemer has lauded the law, particularly the over $5.2 billion in Oregon-specific funds announced recently.
During the announcement of Oregon's receipt of over $28 million through the infrastructure law for lead service line identification and replacement, Chavez-DeRemer joined other state congress members in expressing approval. She stated that this will help Oregon families and businesses secure clean drinking water for future generations, and pledged support for using more federal funds from the infrastructure law for state projects.
Chavez-DeRemer's affirmation contrasts with her earlier stance in 2022 when she arguing that the law was a poor use of tax money. Now, she believes that policies like the infrastructure law are "necessary investments" that will yield significant returns. In March, she even claimed credit for helping secure $1.29 million in funding under the law for a Bend Municipal Airport control tower.
Chavez-DeRemer also highlighted inflation concerns, expressing previous worries about funding sufficiency amidst rising costs and regulatory delays. However, she now focuses on reducing regulations that hinder fund allocation, helping secure millions for projects across the 5th District.
Chavez-DeRemer's approach echoes those of over 200 Republican congress members who initially opposed the infrastructure law but later boasted about project funding in their districts. As a representative of a politically divided district, Chavez-DeRemer has emphasized bipartisan cooperation, partnering with other congress members on initiatives like a federal bridge program and public transportation funding.
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