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Mark McMullen

Vice President of Policy & Research

For media inquiries, please contact cinamon@csinstituteus.org

Mark McMullen brings a wealth of expertise to CSI, having served as the longest-tenured Chief Economist for the State of Oregon under three governors. Serving under a fourth governor as interim Chief Economist his first year, Mark accumulated 14 years of invaluable experience in the governor’s office. Before joining CSI, Mark held prominent roles, including Director of Consulting at Moody’s Analytics and researcher at the Congressional Budget Office. He earned his undergraduate degree from Pomona College and completed his graduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania.

Mark’s dedication to Oregon extends beyond his professional career. He chaired the Governor’s Council of Economic Advisors and contributed to task forces addressing critical issues such as wildfires, COVID response, and student success. Additionally, he actively participated in various economic organizations, including the Workforce and Talent Development Board, Oregon Council of Economic Education, Oregon Government Finance Officers Association, and Oregon Banker’s Association.

With strong ties to Oregon’s heritage, Mark’s family roots in farming and timber work have shaped his understanding of the state’s economic landscape. Alongside his professional accomplishments, Mark finds joy in his 27-year marriage and cherishes time spent with his three adult children.

Expert's Work
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Jobs & Our Economy
Inflation in the Pacific Region - May 2025

Inflation in the Pacific region rose 2.7% year-over-year in May, continuing to outpace the national average of 2.35%. The sharpest increases were seen in Food, Medical Care, Services, and Housing, while Ene

Housing & Our Community
Oregon's Housing Shortage: Demographics, Regional Disparities, and Policy Responses

Oregon is facing a deepening housing crisis, driven by decades of underbuilding, rising household formation, and a rapidly aging population.

Jobs & Our Economy
Oregon Jobs and Labor Force – April 2025 Update

Oregon’s labor market added 1,200 jobs in April 2025, with gains concentrated in leisure and hospitality and professional services. This month's report includes significant downward revisions to late-2024 j

Jobs & Our Economy
Independent Contractors and Employees

Oregon’s Senate Bill 1166 proposes significant changes to the way rideshare drivers are classified, shifting most from independent contractors to employees. This reclassification would entitle drivers to a

Data suggests cost of fentanyl to Oregon hospitals in the billions
KCBY

The research looked at OHA data to determine the cost of overdose deaths to the state's medical system.

June 27, 2024 Mark McMullen
State economist reflects on 14 years on the job
Portland Tribune

For Mark McMullen, who just wrapped up more than 13 years as Oregon’s state economist, coming to Oregon was both difficult and easy.

June 19, 2024 Mark McMullen
Say goodbye to the state economist who is 'always wrong'
Oregon Capital Insider

After a dozen years of always being wrong, McMullen is heading out the state government door.

May 30, 2024 Mark McMullen
Taxes & Fees
Another ‘kicker’ tax refund could be in the works for Oregon taxpayers
OPB

Economists cautioned that the potential of a $582 million refund was still shaky, with warning signs on the horizon.

May 29, 2024 Mark McMullen
Ballot Issues
The Potential Impacts of Oregon Ballot Measure 118 featuring Lynn Snodgrass

This November Oregon voters will decide on Ballot Measure 118.

September 16, 2024 Mark McMullen
Introducing Common Sense Institute Oregon featuring Mark McMullen

In January, CSI made a bold move to kick off 2024 and launched in two new states: Iowa and Oregon. Tune in for more information.

June 25, 2024 Mark McMullen