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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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Workforce
Childcare in Oregon: An Economic Opportunity with Wide Implications

Oregon families face some of the highest child care costs in the nation, with infant care averaging over $14,000 a year and consuming up to 23% of household income in some counties. At the same time, limite

Jobs & Our Economy
Inflation in the Pacific Region - September 2025

Inflation in the Pacific region rose 3.5% year-over-year in September 2025, outpacing the national average of 3%, driven by higher prices in medical care, energy, transportation, and services. The Federal R

October 24, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Healthcare
Oregon’s Mental Health Crisis: Access, Outcomes, and the Cost of Inaction

Oregon faces some of the worst mental-health outcomes in the U.S., with high rates of illness, suicide, and overdose—and major downstream impacts on homelessness, incarceration, and productivity. Despite un

October 23, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Jobs & Our Economy
Oregon Jobs and Labor Force – August 2025 Update

Oregon’s labor market gained 7,000 jobs in August, led by Education and Health Services, Leisure and Hospitality, and Government, while Manufacturing added 900 jobs after three months of losses. Despite the

September 17, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Healthcare
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