Oregon Jury Instruction — 1.1.2 Public Employee First Amendment Claim Discharge — Failure To Promote Political Disloyalty — Key Employee This jury instruction is applicable to cases involving public employees who claim they were discharged or not promoted due to their political disloyalty, which violates their First Amendment rights. The instruction is specifically designed to address situations where the public employee holds a key position in their organization. In such cases, the key employee status plays a crucial role in determining the employee's First Amendment rights. The term "key employee" refers to an individual who holds a position of importance within the organization, often with significant responsibilities and decision-making authority. To establish a claim under Oregon Jury Instruction 1.1.2, the plaintiff (public employee) must prove the following elements: 1. Political Disloyalty: The plaintiff must demonstrate that their employer took adverse action against them based on their political beliefs, activities, or expressions. This could include supporting a particular political candidate or party, engaging in political campaigns, or expressing political opinions. 2. Public Concern: The plaintiff must establish that their political speech or activity was related to a matter of public concern rather than personal or private matters. Public concern includes political issues, policies, or matters affecting the public interest. 3. Substantial or Motivating Factor: The plaintiff needs to show that their political disloyalty was a substantial or motivating factor behind the employer's decision to discharge or deny them a promotion. This means proving that the employer would not have taken the same action if the employee had not engaged in protected political speech or activity. 4. Employer's Interest: The defendant (employer) may argue that their action was justified because it serves a valid interest in maintaining efficient operation, harmony, or effectiveness of their organization. The plaintiff must demonstrate that their political speech or activity did not significantly disrupt the employer's operations or interfere with their legitimate interests. The key employee status will impact the analysis of the claim. If the plaintiff is classified as a key employee, they must additionally demonstrate that their political disloyalty was likely to impair the proper performance of their job duties or undermine the employer's confidence in their ability to fulfill their responsibilities. Under this instruction, the jury will be guided to consider the specific circumstances and evidence presented in the case to determine whether the plaintiff's First Amendment rights were violated, leading to their discharge or failure to receive a promotion. The instruction assists the jury in applying the legal standards applicable to public employee claims involving political disloyalty and the nuances associated with key employees.