Senate confirms three governor nominees to lead state agencies

The Oregon Senate confirmed three of the governor’s executive appointments on May 7, voting to place new leadership in several state agencies.

The Senate confirmed Betsy Eimholt as director of the Department of Administrative Services, Andrew Stolfi as director of the Employment Department, and David Gershenfeld as director of the Department of Revenue. Each confirmation was taken separately on the Senate floor; the recorded roll calls showed that Eimholt and Stolfi were confirmed with 28 ayes, and Gershenfeld was confirmed with 26 ayes.

Senator Jama, who moved each confirmation, introduced the nominees and cited their relevant experience. On Eimholt, Jama noted her 33 years in state government, including roles in the early learning division and the Department of Transportation, and said she holds a bachelor’s in public policy and a master of public administration.

Andrew Stolfi’s record was described as including service as director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services and insurance commissioner. Senator Jama told the Senate that Stolfi served in leadership roles at the International Association of Insurance Supervisors and has a legal background that includes work in Illinois government and courts.

David Gershenfeld’s credentials were reviewed on the floor as well. Senators cited his long tenure in state service, his role leading unemployment insurance and technology rollouts during the pandemic, and his work launching paid family leave Oregon. Senator Meek rose to endorse Gershenfeld, saying that his interactions had been “very professional, always engaging, and very responsive to any questions we have.”

Each confirmation will move the appointee into authority over the corresponding department pending formal commissioning and any required administrative steps.

Votes were taken by roll call for each nominee: Eimholt and Stolfi received recorded majorities of 28 ayes; Gershenfeld received 26 ayes on the recorded roll call.