In a significant political maneuver, Oregon Senate Republicans staged a walkout, effectively denying quorum ahead of a contentious vote on a transportation tax referendum. The Democrats have advanced a bill aiming to move the vote on the statewide transportation funding package to May, despite pushback and widespread public opposition. Thousands have submitted testimony against changing the election date, citing concerns over the gas tax impacts. Meanwhile, Democrats continue to push for the ODOT tax bill, which has taken steps towards appearing on the May ballot. The ongoing debate reflects the tensions between party lines and the differing priorities regarding transportation funding in the state.