Mari Watanabe

Mari Watanabe is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives for the 34th district. Appointed in January 2025 to fill a vacancy, she made history as the first Japanese American to serve in the Oregon Legislature. Prior to her legislative career, she served as the first executive director of the Japanese Museum of Oregon and held roles with the Portland Business Alliance and Partners in Diversity. She has also served on the boards of directors for Portland Community College and the Oregon Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs.