Travis Nelson

Travis Nelson is an American politician and nurse serving as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives from the 44th district. He assumed office on February 1, 2022, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ man of color and the first openly LGBTQ+ African American to serve in the Oregon Legislature. Nelson was born in poverty in rural Louisiana and later moved to Kennewick, Washington. He worked various jobs, including janitor, landscaper, and coach, while earning nursing degrees from Columbia Basin Community College and Washington State University. Travis Nelson started his nursing career at PeaceHealth, specializing in medical, surgical, cardiac, rehabilitation, and emergency nursing. Additionally, he is a union representative and former vice president of the Oregon Nurses Association.