Congressional Management Foundation Awards Merkley with Democracy Award
Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley has been awarded by the Congressional Management Foundation Best of Constituent Correspondence and Engagement.
Merkley was recognized for choosing comprehensive, proactive communication with constituents – writing back to Oregonians who reach out to his office, holding public town hall meetings in each of Oregon’s 36 counties every year, keeping constituents updated on social media and with timely emails, and spearheading the Oregon Treasures Quest to encourage folks to explore more parts of Oregon.
“Connecting with constituents is a key to a thriving democracy,” said Merkley. “I want every Oregonian to have ample opportunity to share their views with me, which helps me advocate for relevant actions and policies.”
“I thank the Congressional Management Foundation for the recognition, and the members of my staff who work hard to ensure that Oregonians can reach me through calls, letters, or my town halls.”
“Amidst all the pressing concerns we carry, there’s one truth worth pondering: Oregonians live in the best paradise to be found on the planet, and that’s something we can always celebrate. That’s why I started the Oregon Treasures Quest to encourage folks to hit the road with their friends or family to connect with so many amazing natural settings across our state. There is nothing better for restoring our souls,” Merkley continued.
The award honors Merkley’s sustained excellence in constituent communication and engagement across Oregon. The Best of Constituent Correspondence and Engagement category recognizes offices that excel in constituent communication through letters, email, social media, outreach, and ongoing dialogue with the communities they serve.
“In an era when many Americans feel disconnected from their government, Senator Merkley’s office made constituent communication a clear priority. Effective constituent engagement doesn’t happen by accident, it requires intentional leadership, strong systems, and a commitment to treating communication as a core responsibility of representation. By building a culture of responsiveness and ensuring constituents felt heard and informed, the office created a model that strengthens the connection between citizens and Congress,” said Jen Daulby, CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation.
In the last two years, Merkley’s office received and responded to an average of more than 24,000 messages each week. And in 2025, Merkley’s office received over 100,000 phone calls. Merkley also regularly sends email updates to Oregonians about the work that he’s doing. You can sign up to receive email updates from Merkley on his website by clicking here.
Since becoming Senator, Merkley has held an open town hall meeting in each of Oregon’s 36 counties every year – more than 600 to date. At each of the public events, he recognizes a local organization with a U.S. flag flown over the United States Capitol and engages with constituents over questions for about an hour. You can watch Merkley reflecting on over 600 town hall meetings by clicking here.
Inspired by traveling the state each year, Merkley was eager to share treasures he found along the way with others. In 2024, Merkley launched The Oregon Treasures Quest highlighting sites in each of Oregon’s 36 counties worth visiting. Participants who visit sites in at least 10 different counties in a year are invited to a year-end party to connect and hear stories from others who completed the challenge. In 2025, 438 people participated in the Oregon Treasures Quest and more than 350 people visited at least 10 counties. You can find out more about The Oregon Treasures Quest, including how to participate, by clicking here.
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