A Lifelong commitment
Maxine Dexter grew up in the Pacific Northwest, facing hardships from a young age. Despite financial struggles and a tumultuous home environment, Maxine found strength and support in her community. Teachers and neighbors became her mentors, instilling in her a deep and lifelong commitment to caring for others.
At age sixteen, Maxine donned an apron and began working at Albertson’s as a UFCW union member. Thanks to the wages, health care benefits, and job security she received at Albertsons – and some student loans – Maxine was able to pursue higher education. Proudly, she went on to be the first in her family to graduate from college and then from medical school at the University of Washington.
Experience and results
As a physician at Kaiser Permanente, she applied her expertise and passion to care for the most vulnerable Oregonians. She tackled complex health issues by leveraging evidence-based practices, ensuring that her decisions are rooted in science and tailored to achieve the best outcomes for each patient. Maxine then brought this same evidence-based approach to her role as a lawmaker.
As a state representative for the 33rd District, Maxine secured historic housing investments, strengthened abortion protections, increased addiction treatment options, and closed dangerous loopholes in gun laws.
Fighting for the third district
Now as a member of Congress, proudly representing Oregon’s Third District, Maxine still applies the lessons learned from practicing medicine for decades. A vocal critic of Donald Trump’s dangerous policies, she is working to protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, as well as fighting for climate justice and economic opportunity.
A Passion for Solutions
With a demonstrated ability to bring people together, the willingness to listen to diverse perspectives, and a passion for progressive solutions that improve lives and drive meaningful results, Maxine is delivering for communities in Oregon.
Maxine lives in Portland with her husband and two kids. She fell in love with Oregon’s natural beauty and rich creative tapestry while balancing the demands of raising children with a busy career as a doctor.
Members of the U.S. House of Representatives write and vote on federal laws, including the federal budget. Each represents one district and serves a two-year term. Tax bills must start in the House, only the House can impeach federal officials, and members oversee federal agencies through their committees.