Danielle Bethell

Marion County Commissioner and gubernatorial candidate Danielle Bethell is currently the subject of two ongoing state ethics investigations initiated by the Oregon Government Ethics Commission following a unanimous vote in December 2025. The first case involves allegations that Bethell used her position to benefit her daughter during a December 2024 traffic stop. Reports indicate Bethell intervened via phone, suggesting the officer be thoughtful and stating her daughter could not appear in Marion County Justice Court because Bethell sets its budget. Investigators are reviewing whether she improperly sought to avoid financial consequences for her daughter and whether she improperly utilized county legal counsel for her personal defense. The second case concerns a September 3, 2025, vote on contract amendments worth over $2 million for Slayden Constructors, a firm employing Bethell’s son. While Bethell publicly declared a potential conflict of interest, the commission is investigating whether she had an actual conflict that should have barred her from participating. Bethell has maintained she acted in good faith following the advice of county legal counsel. No indictments, convictions, or findings of misconduct have been issued as the investigations remain ongoing.