The Democratic candidate and Reynolds School Board member is leading the race to claim House District 50, after the latest wave of election returns were announced Tuesday evening, Nov. 3.
As of 8 a.m., Ricki Ruiz has received 15,228 votes, 53.58%. Trailing is Amelia Salvador with 13,133 votes, 46.21%. In total 28,421 votes have been counted.
"We are very thankful for the voter turnout," Ruiz said. "There are still more votes to be counted, but I am confident it is going to go our way. It makes me proud to live in Gresham."
The position is vacant after Rep. Carla Piluso, D-Gresham, decided not to run for reelection.
Ruiz works for the city of Gresham as a community services coordinator. His role includes leading youth recreation programming, supporting public safety with the Neighborhood Ready Program, overseeing the Youth Advisory Council, and is a city Spanish interpreter.
"Thank you is not enough," Ruiz said. "I am determined to work for those who voted for me and those who didn't, or couldn't vote."
The 25-year-old grew up in Rockwood and is known for bringing nine mini-pitch futsal courts to East Multnomah County parks. He is supportive of a parks district; wants to build more affordable housing in Gresham; and continue to support small businesses that are being hit hard during the pandemic.
Salvador is a commercial real estate broker, who also runs a small business specializing in marketing/brand-development as well as specialty event design work. She has five grown children and one grandchild.
Her focus is on affordability and lowering taxes; better addressing homelessness; and bolstering economic development, with a specific focus on keeping small businesses afloat during the pandemic.
This story will be updated as more results are tallied.
