Rising Business Costs Spur Drazan Roundtable with Eugene Owners, Backed by Gianforte
By Kate Stuzin & NBC16.com Staff
Wed, September 30, 2026
Updated Wed, September 30, 2026 at 6:15 PM
Oregon Republican gubernatorial candidate Christine Drazan held a roundtable discussion with Eugene business owners on Wednesday alongside Montana Governor Greg Gianforte. They discussed the cost of doing business and Drazan’s ideas for growing Oregon's economy.
Drazan emphasizes that one crucial job is to listen to job creators and understand what holds them back. She advocates for a more business-friendly Oregon with fewer regulatory hurdles, lower costs, and a focus on job growth.
Montana Governor Gianforte, who is campaigning for Drazan, joined her for the roundtable with six Eugene business owners to promote her economic growth plan. He highlighted the success of Montana's reforms, including tax cuts, regulatory review, infrastructure investments, and workforce development.
Drazan highlights the need to reduce Oregon’s regulatory hurdles, lower business costs, and listen to employers about their challenges. A central part of her economic pitch is tax relief, particularly focusing on the Corporate Activity Tax (CAT). She proposes raising the threshold for the CAT tax from one million to seven to ten million dollars, as highlighted by local business owner Steve Hirons.
Governor Tina Kotek’s 15-member Prosperity Council has also recommended changes to the CAT tax, aiming to raise the exemption threshold to two million dollars.
Drazan and Kotek will face off in their first debate on Thursday at the University of Oregon.