Former Trail Blazers Center Chris Dudley Launches Second Bid for Oregon Governor

Former Portland Trail Blazers center Chris Dudley launches his second campaign for governor of Oregon, joining a crowded Republican primary field.

Dudley Announces Candidacy in Online Video

Dudley, a Republican and 16-year NBA veteran, revealed his gubernatorial campaign in a video posted online, saying Oregon faces serious challenges but still has a promising future.

“I love Oregon, and even though we have some serious problems, there are solutions and I believe our best days are ahead of us,” Dudley said.

He added that political division and empty rhetoric have stalled progress in the state. “The empty promises, the name calling, finger pointing and fear mongering that has solved nothing must stop. You deserve better.”

From NBA Career to Oregon Politics

Dudley spent six seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers during his NBA career, playing for the team from 1993 to 1997 and again during the 2001–02 season. He finished his professional basketball career in Portland before retiring.

Originally from Connecticut, Dudley attended high school in San Diego and began his NBA career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, who selected him in the fourth round of the 1987 NBA Draft. He later played for the New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Phoenix Suns before returning to Portland.

Narrow Loss in 2010 Governor’s Race

This marks Dudley’s second attempt at becoming Oregon’s governor. In 2010, he narrowly lost to then-Democratic Gov. John Kitzhaber, earning 47.8% of the vote compared to Kitzhaber’s 49.3%  a margin of less than two percentage points.

That close race remains a key part of Dudley’s political profile as he seeks to reintroduce himself to voters.

Crowded Republican Field Takes Shape

Dudley joins a field of 14 Republican candidates challenging Gov. Tina Kotek, who is seeking re-election. Five other Democrats have also announced their candidacies.

The Oregon primary election is scheduled for May 19, setting the stage for an increasingly competitive race in the months ahead.

Looking Ahead

Dudley’s mix of sports fame, prior political experience, and renewed message of reform positions him as a notable contender in a crowded field. As the primary approaches, voters will be watching to see whether his second bid resonates more strongly than the first.