Andy Olson

Andy Olson (born November 6, 1952) is a Republican politician from the U.S. state of Oregon. He serves in the Oregon House of Representatives for District 15, representing parts of Linn and Benton counties, including the city of Albany. Olson served as co-speaker pro tempore in the 76th Oregon Legislative Assembly with Democrat Tina Kotek due to a power-sharing arrangement in the evenly divided Oregon House.

Early life and career

Olson was born in Norfolk, Nebraska. He earned an Associate of Arts in Law Enforcement from Chemeketa Community College and a BA in Human Resources Management from George Fox University. In 1978, Olson became an Oregon State Police Officer and was stationed all over the state, eventually serving as Lieutenant and Station Commander in Albany, McMinnville, and Beaverton. He retired from the state police in 2007. Olson continues to teach public safety with a focus on leadership and character at Linn–Benton Community College.

Political career

In 2004, incumbent Republican Betsy Close announced that she would not seek re-election in district 15, while simultaneously endorsing Olson as her successor. Olson defeated Democrat Wes Price to win election in November and has since been re-elected three times.

Personal

Olson and his wife Pam have three children and live in Albany.