Congressman Bentz Discusses Iran, Town Halls, and Forest Service Headquarters Move

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In an interview with the Baker City Herald, Congressman Cliff Bentz, a Republican representing Oregon's 2nd Congressional District, discussed a range of political issues. Bentz said he fully supports the Trump administration's military campaign to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, but he is not enthusiastic about potentially sending U.S. ground troops to seize Iran's uranium stockpile. Bentz also defended his decision to replace in-person town halls with telephone events, arguing that disruptive protesters undermine the purpose of the meetings. Additionally, Bentz endorsed the plan to move the U.S. Forest Service headquarters from Washington, D.C. to Salt Lake City, believing it will improve forest management.

Why it matters

Bentz's comments on Iran, town halls, and the Forest Service headquarters move provide insight into his policy positions and approach to representing his constituents. As a Republican congressman in a largely conservative district, his views on these issues are significant, particularly as the U.S. continues its military campaign against Iran and debates the best way for elected officials to engage with their communities.

The details

Regarding Iran, Bentz said he supports the Trump administration's efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, but he is hesitant about the prospect of sending U.S. ground troops to seize Iran's uranium stockpile. He believes a detailed explanation would be needed to justify such a move. Bentz also said he supports regime change in Iran, but not one instigated by the U.S. On the topic of town halls, Bentz defended his decision to replace in-person events with telephone town halls, arguing that disruptive protesters undermine the purpose of the meetings. He said he has heard from constituents who left his town halls due to the disruptions. Bentz believes the protesters are more interested in criticizing the Trump administration than engaging with him directly. Finally, Bentz endorsed the plan to move the U.S. Forest Service headquarters from Washington, D.C. to Salt Lake City, believing it will improve the agency's management of federal lands. He also supports creating a new federal agency focused solely on wildfire fighting, citing the need for ample firefighting resources ahead of a potentially severe wildfire season.

• Bentz made these comments during an interview with the Baker City Herald on April 10, 2026.
• Bentz replaced in-person town halls with telephone events last year.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Bentz said he will return to hosting in-person town halls at some point in the future, as he enjoys the format and believes it is important for engaging with constituents.