Rob Raschio, local attorney and former Burns City Councilor, announced his intent to file for circuit court judge in Oregon’s 24th Judicial District, with jurisdiction in Grant and Harney counties.

“As judge, I will listen to all sides of an issue, and I will make decisions the same way I have as an attorney — with integrity, experience, and common sense,” Raschio said. “Our citizens deserve to be listened to and given a fair and efficient experience with our legal system.”

Raschio has been a practicing attorney for nearly 20 years, beginning at the Law Office of Markku Sario in Canyon City before becoming a Partner at Mallon, Lamborn, Raschio, PC in Burns. In 2006, he joined and later became a partner at Morris, Smith, Starns, Sullivan and Raschio, PC., in The Dalles. He has operated his private practice in John Day since 2014.

“Serving as judge is no easy task. It requires thoughtfulness, integrity, accountability, and a strong knowledge of the law,” said Hon. Judge John Olson, Seventh Judicial District. “After practicing with him for years, I am certain Rob is beyond qualified to serve in this capacity, and Grant and Harney counties, as well as our entire state, would be fortunate to have him as circuit court judge in the 24th judicial district.”

From 2003-2006, Raschio served on the Burns City Council, and from 2018-2019 he was an appointed pro-tem commissioner to the Grant County Court. While serving as commissioner, he supported the reorganization of the sheriff’s office to improve the command structure and created a permanent deputy district attorney position to increase transparency and accountability to citizens and within the legal community.

“Rob is committed to listening to all sides and seeing all angles of an issue in order to find the best solution,” said Sam Palmer, Grant County commissioner. “He is firm, but fair, thoughtful, but decisive. He will lead from the bench with that same temperament.”

Raschio has served as vice chair of the Oregon State Bar Professional Liability Fund, a hand-picked membership who have been recognized for their excellence in their legal field of competence.

“Rob has always shown to have utmost character. He is a trustworthy, capable leader who puts the needs of others above himself. He truly cares about our community,” said Holly Smith, retired US Bank manager in Burns.

Raschio and his wife, Sena (maiden name Farstvedt), an elementary school teacher who was raised in Burns, have two children, Vincent and Annabelle.

“The entire Raschio family make their commitment to our community a priority, and Rob truly cares about helping others,” Valerie Fansler said. “That caring attitude is what Grant and Harney County citizens deserve in an elected leader.”

Raschio will officially file his candidacy with the Oregon secretary of state on Thursday, Sept. 12, the first day the state allows candidates to file for the May 2020 primary.