The Jeff Merkley profile:

AP photo

AGE: 51. Born in Myrtle Creek on Oct. 24, 1956

PERSONAL: Married to Mary Sorteberg; two children

RELIGION: Lutheran

PARTY: Democrat

POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Oregon House speaker, 2007-present; House minority leader, 2003-07; first elected to House, 1998

EDUCATION: B.A. in international relations, Stanford University; master's in public policy, Princeton University

BUSINESS EXPERIENCE: President, Oregon World Affairs Council, 1996-2003; executive director, Portland Habitat for Humanity, 1991-94; national security analyst, Pentagon and Congressional Budget Office, 1982-88.

FUN FACT: Despite his reserved demeanor, Merkley considers himself a bit of a thrill seeker, enjoys driving quarter-midget race cars and sky diving. On a more sedate note, he's a Rubik's cube expert.