Multnomah County judge race is drawing attention as a Korean American prosecutor formally enters the contest for a key judicial seat in Oregon.
Michael Lee, 37, a prosecutor in Multnomah County, has announced his candidacy for Position 14 on the Multnomah County Circuit Court. He is one of seven candidates competing in the upcoming election scheduled for May 19.
Lee has served as a Multnomah County prosecutor since 2016, handling more than 70 cases. His experience spans not only criminal prosecutions but also broader public safety issues, giving him a well-rounded perspective on the justice system.
A graduate of Lewis & Clark Law School, Lee recently earned a master’s degree in operational studies from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC). He was commissioned as an officer in the Oregon National Guard in 2011 and has been deployed to both Qatar and Iraq.
Lee emphasized that his military background has shaped his leadership and crisis-management abilities. “The leadership and decision-making skills I developed in the military will be valuable on the bench,” he said.
Multnomah County judge race priorities
Lee underscored the importance of a judiciary that reflects the diversity of the community it serves. He believes that everyone should receive fair treatment in court and be able to clearly understand legal procedures.
He also highlighted the need to reduce case backlogs and ensure timely trials. According to Lee, balancing public safety with fair legal processes will be a central priority if elected.
Focus on community and representation
Lee expressed a desire to strengthen engagement with diverse communities, including Korean Americans. “I want to contribute to the community using the judgment and leadership I’ve gained through my legal and military experience,” he said.
Under Oregon’s election rules, a candidate who receives more than 50% of the vote in the May 19 primary will win the seat outright. If no candidate achieves a majority, the top two vote-getters will advance to a runoff election scheduled for November 3.
As the Multnomah County judge race intensifies, Lee’s candidacy adds a notable dimension, combining legal expertise, military service, and a focus on inclusive justice.
