A Fond Farewell to My Friends at the Capitol
Anne Johnson retires after 22 years in Oregon politics.
When I ventured into the world of politics in 2001 to work on a House campaign and then became a legislative staffer, I never dreamed I would still be working in this industry in 2023. Sometimes I believe that life chooses us, and in that same vein, it gives us subtle reminders of when it’s time to move on.
When the sessions start to feel longer, and the steps to the Capitol begin to look steeper, you recognize that the “good ol’ days” have come and gone. I realized recently that I am no longer the 30-year-old with a drive to change the world but rather a daughter, a sister, and a mother who is simply thankful that the world did not change her.
I hope you learned something from me. I certainly learned a lot from you. Clients, coworkers, lobbyists, agency heads, legislators, and Capitol staff have all felt like family. For the camaraderie and the patience, the long debates, and lifelong friendships, I thank you.
As I head into retirement, I want to thank you for our time together. I was honored to work alongside and get to know so many of you. It was a privilege to serve as a lobbyist, and I can only hope that I served well.
Namaste,
Anne
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt