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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
Where Oregon Grows Its Christmas Cheer

Oregon’s Christmas tree industry includes 318 licensed growers across 17 counties, with nearly half concentrated in Clackamas and Marion counties. In 2023, growers harvested 3.17 million trees, generating a

December 20, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Jobs & Our Economy
Inflation in the Pacific Region November 2025

Inflation in the Pacific region remains above the national average, though recent data suggest modest cooling toward the end of 2025. Over the 12 months ending in November, prices rose 3.2 percent in the re

December 18, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Jobs & Our Economy
Oregon Jobs and Labor Force – September 2025 Update

Oregon added 3,300 jobs in September, but year-to-date growth remains weak, with only 2,200 jobs gained so far in 2025 compared to 17,000 over the same period last year. Unemployment rose to 5.2%, and ongoi

December 11, 2025 Serra KirschMark McMullen
Jobs & Our Economy
All’s Well That Ends Well: What Oregon Gives Thanks for This Year

Oregon closes out the year with several encouraging trends, including rising real incomes, falling poverty, a calmer wildfire season, and modest housing-supply progress. Together, these improvements highlig

November 25, 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