About John

John Swanson grew up in Southern Oregon, and received a BA from Willamette University. He worked summers in a plywood mill to help pay for his education. Early proximity to the State Capitol allowed him to engage in the policymaking process, and his experience now spans 20 years.

John married his wife, Kimberly in 2015, who grew up in Rickreall. They lived in West Salem for five years, until moving to their permanent home in rural Polk County. The Swansons have two children.

In the Legislature, John is the Chief of Staff for State Senator Bruce Starr, whose district spans most of rural Polk County. John is a small business owner, and is the Executive Director the Leadership Fund which supports a more balanced state legislature.

John volunteers supporting youth sports and activities in the Monmouth-Independence area. The Swansons’ church home is Cultivate Community Church in Monmouth.