The Only Veteran Patriot Running for the US Senate

In Oregon politics, where rhetoric often overshadows substance, the 2026 U.S. Senate race presents a clear choice for Republican voters in the primary: Russ McAlmond, a dedicated U.S. Marine veteran, stands out as the only candidate with military service among those vying for the nomination.

While other contenders bring their own backgrounds, McAlmond's service as a Marine, combined with his conservative values and proven track record in business and family life, positions him as a true patriot ready to bring real-world experience to Washington, D.C.

Russ McAlmond's military record is a testament to his commitment to the nation and to Oregon. He joined the Marines in downtown Portland at the tender age of 18. He served three years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps, including a grueling 15-month overseas deployment, before receiving an honorable discharge. He was trained in combat infantry (0311) and was a weapons instructor for other Marines. 

This experience defines patriotism not as mere words, but as action—putting one's life on the line for the American founding values of individual freedom. 

His conservative principles, rooted in ethical individualism and a belief in judging people as unique individuals rather than by group identities, further solidify his status as a patriot. In an era where division runs rampant, McAlmond's philosophy promotes equality for all, echoing the foundational American ideals of liberty and personal responsibility.

The value of electing a veteran like McAlmond to the U.S. Senate cannot be overstated, particularly when it comes to national security, foreign policy, and veterans' affairs. Having served with boots on the ground, he possesses an intimate understanding of what it means to be deployed overseas as an American service member—facing the uncertainties of foreign lands, the rigors of duty, and the sacrifices required to protect our interests abroad.

This firsthand knowledge is invaluable in the Senate, where decisions on military engagements, international alliances, and support for troops are made daily. A senator with military experience can advocate more effectively for policies that honor our service members, ensure proper funding for defense, and address the needs of veterans returning home.

McAlmond's insights would bring authenticity to debates on issues like border security and global threats, drawing from the discipline and resilience forged in the Marines.Despite facing disabilities stemming from his service, McAlmond has not let these challenges define or limit him. Instead, he channeled his determination into a thriving business career as a certified financial planner, building Evergreen Capital Management from the ground up and earning advanced degrees including an MBA, a Master of Science in Financial Services, and a Leadership Certificate from Harvard University.

He founded the Center for Human Equality, advocating for true individualism, and authored the book Ethical Individualism to promote these ideas. On a personal level, he has raised a wonderful family as a husband and father of three, demonstrating the balance of duty, perseverance, and love that resonates with Oregon families.

His story is one of triumph over adversity, making him a relatable and inspiring figure for constituents across the state.

Now, McAlmond seeks to extend his service to Oregon by challenging incumbent Democrat Jeff Merkley, who has never served in the military and lacks the veteran's perspective that McAlmond brings.

Merkley's tenure has been marked by controversial statements, including likening federal immigration enforcement actions—such as those by ICE—to fascism, claiming they involve "masked federal agents terrorizing our communities."

Such rhetoric highlights a tendency to broadly categorize and judge groups of people, which contrasts sharply with McAlmond's commitment to ethical individualism and maturity in discourse. Oregon deserves a senator who unites rather than divides, who understands the complexities of law enforcement and national security without resorting to inflammatory labels.

McAlmond positions himself as a common-sense Republican, rejecting extremism from both sides and focusing on representing the majority of Oregonians. As the only veteran in the Republican primary, Russ McAlmond deserves the support of Oregon voters who value service, integrity, and experience.

His journey from Marine to successful entrepreneur and family man equips him uniquely to defeat Merkley in the general election and restore principled leadership to the Senate. In a time when our nation faces profound challenges, electing a proven patriot like McAlmond isn't just an option—it's a necessity for Oregon's future.