The Supreme Court is the highest court in Oregon with seven justices elected to six-year terms. Oregon also has a court of appeals and district, county, justice and municipal courts. The head of the government is the governor, elected for a four-year term. Oregon is governed by a House of 60 representatives elected for two years and a Senate of 30 serving four years. These bodies convene in January of each odd-year.
Legislative activities continue in the interim period through special committees.
The cities of Oregon choose their own form of government. Portland, the largest city, has a mayor and four city commissioners. Oregon has a long history of progressive legislation and citizen involvement in government.