Knute Buehler, MD, MA (Osheru)
Overview
Knute Carl Buehler is a notable American physician, politician, and former gubernatorial candidate. Born and raised in Oregon, Buehler built a diverse career by combining medicine with public service. He initially gained recognition in the Oregon political arena as a moderate Republican, serving in the Oregon House of Representatives from 2015 to 2019. Buehler ran for governor in 2018 but was defeated by incumbent Kate Brown in what became the most expensive gubernatorial race in Oregon's history. Throughout his career, Buehler has been known for his advocacy of healthcare reform, educational improvements, and fiscal conservatism, while taking moderate stances on social issues.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Knute Buehler has continued to be an influential figure in Oregon politics, navigating through shifting political landscapes and maintaining his stance as an independent thinker:
- 2025: Buehler endorsed Democratic Bend City Councilor Anthony Broadman for a state Senate seat, citing Broadman's pragmatic approach and independence as key factors in his decision, reflecting Buehler's own centrist leanings.
- 2021: Following the storming of the U.S. Capitol, Buehler left the Republican Party, criticizing its response to the events and aligning himself with more independent political ideals.
- 2020: Buehler ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in Oregon's 2nd Congressional District but lost in the Republican primary to Cliff Bentz.
- 2019: He announced his candidacy for the U.S. Congress, seeking to represent Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District with a campaign focused on independence from major political influences.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Knute Carl Buehler |
| Born | 1964, Roseburg, Oregon, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Physician, Politician |
| Known For | Oregon House of Representatives, 2018 Gubernatorial Race |
| Education | Oregon State University, University of Oxford (Rhodes Scholar) |
Early Life and Education
Knute Buehler was born and raised in Roseburg, Oregon, in a working-class family. His early experiences in a small Oregon community instilled in him the values of hard work and service. Buehler attended Oregon State University, where he was active in sports, playing in the varsity baseball team, and graduated with degrees in history and microbiology in 1986. A Rhodes Scholar, he pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford, earning a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics.
Career and Notable Achievements
Buehler's career spans medicine and politics, marking significant contributions in both fields:
- Orthopedic Surgeon: After completing his medical education, Buehler returned to Oregon and established himself as a leading orthopedic surgeon.
- Oregon House of Representatives: Elected in 2014, he served until 2019, where he pushed for bipartisan healthcare reforms and transparency in political processes.
- 2018 Gubernatorial Candidate: Ran against Kate Brown, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and educational reform, but ultimately lost in a high-cost election.
- Bipartisan Legislation: Known for advocating laws supporting over-the-counter birth control and access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients.
Current Work and Impact
As of 2025, Knute Buehler continues to advocate for political moderation and transparency in governance. Although he is no longer holding an elected office, his recent endorsements and public statements reflect his ongoing influence in Oregon's political discourse. Buehler’s departure from party politics post-Capitol riot highlights his commitment to stand against what he perceives as divisive and partisan politics.
Conclusion
Knute Buehler's journey from a small Oregon town to the forefront of statewide politics exemplifies a commitment to public service and principled leadership. His career, characterized by advocacy for healthcare reform and moderate political stances, continues to resonate in Oregon's political sphere. As he remains active in endorsing candidates and shaping public opinion, Buehler’s legacy as a bridge between polarized sides of the political landscape is likely to endure.