Linda Nishioka has served Salem’s Ward 2 with dedication and a depth of experience since joining the City Council in August 2022. Her transition from a distinguished healthcare career —including 22 years as Department Director for Willamette Ear, Nose, and Throat and nearly three decades in dentistry — brought valuable leadership and problem-solving skills to our city government. 

Throughout her tenure, Linda has championed critical community priorities including livability, housing, public safety, and responsible development, while tackling complex challenges like homelessness. Her prior service as Vice-Chair of Salem’s Downtown Advisory Board demonstrated her commitment to the city’s vitality long before taking elected office. She currently serves as City Council President.
 
As her current term continues through December 2026, Progressives in Ward 2 are excited to see Councilor Nishioka pursue re-election. Councilor Linda Nishioka has filed for office and returned signatures, the first Progressive Salem candidate to qualify for the May 2026 ballot. 
 
We look forward to supporting Linda as she builds on her record of community service and bringing her practical, solution-oriented approach to the continued challenges facing Salem’s residents.