Republicans will enter next year’s session with new leaders in both chambers, while Democrats will have a new House speaker and majority leader and ... and excited about the future of conservatism in Oregon,” Helfrich said in a statement.

House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich cited frustration with ongoing drama within his own party as a key reason for stepping down as caucus leader this week, according to an internal letter he sent to caucus members Monday.

State Rep. Jeff Helfrich will not seek reelection as minority leader in the Oregon House. The Hood River Republican, who represents the 52nd House District in the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood,