State Senator Lew Frederick

Lew Frederick learned the importance of public service as a young man in Atlanta during the height of the civil rights movement, where a mentor once told him “Use the talents and opportunities you have. You’re supposed to make this world better for those who come after you.”

That mentor was the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Those words, reinforced by his parents’ example, led Lew to a career in public service. They still influence him deeply today, always urging him to make a difference, especially for young people.

A resident and deeply involved community member of Northeast Portland since 1974, Lew Frederick is running for State Representative to honor those who came before and to fulfill his commitment to those who will follow. He’s spent his career in public service, with two years teaching classes at the Metropolitan Learning Center, 17 years as a radio and television reporter with 62KGW/Channel 8 KGW-TV, thirteen years as Director of Public Information at Portland Public Schools, Assistant to the President at Portland Community College and, most recently, two years on the State Board of Education, in addition to his public-interest oriented consulting work.

Lew will bring this lifetime of experience to Salem, where he wants to continue to advocate for the betterment of our community.