Meet the Candidate

Chelsea, a person with long dark hair wearing a light blue top and gemstone necklace against a plain white background.

Chelsea Alionar

Hi, I'm Chelsea Alionar (All-lee-own-nuh).

I was born in Kahului, Maui, and much of my family still calls Hawai'i home. I've built my life here in Keizer. My roots taught me the importance of community, humility, and caring for one another, values that continue to shape my life today.

Professionally, I've spent nearly 15 years with the Oregon Health Authority as a Program Integrity Auditor for Oregon's Medicaid program. My work focuses on oversight, accountability, and ensuring public resources are used responsibly. Every day, I ask difficult questions, evaluate the facts, and help protect the integrity of programs that serve one-quarter of all Oregonians.

Outside of my career, I've dedicated years to advocating for working people through community activism, organizing, and within my union. As a SEIU 503 leader and Vice President of Public Sector, I represent over 70,000 working people and their families. I've represented hundreds of workers through bargaining, grievances, workplace investigations, accommodations, and pay equity issues. I've grown into being a better listener and collaborator, learned how to navigate complex systems, and most importantly, found the confidence to stand up for people when they need someone to advocate for them.

Chelsea leading a sidewalk protest with a megaphone while others hold signs behind them.

Two people in purple SEIU 503 shirts sitting at a table under a canopy at a community event.

Chelsea outdoors with two dogs, one riding in a stroller and one standing beside them.

When I'm not working, you'll usually find me backpacking, hiking, paddleboarding, or planning my next international adventure. Travel has become one of my greatest teachers. Experiencing different cultures and ways of life has broadened my perspective, challenged my assumptions, and reminded me that some of the best ideas come from listening and learning from others.

I'm also a proud dog mom to two incredible companions. My Australian Shepherd, Addie is my soulmate and constant sidekick, and Ninja, my 15-year old miniature pug, has somehow managed to live at least 17 lives in her 15 years. They bring me so much joy!

Whether in my career, union leadership, or in our broader community, I've always believed that leadership starts with listening. At the same time, I stand firmly on the principles of accountability and as much transparency as feasibly possible, and I believe every person deserves to be treated through an equity lens, with dignity, respect, and fairness.