First-term Democrat Richard L. Neuberger had been diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1958 that became terminal by 1960 — but was kept from the public.

Though still publicly seeking re-election, he told his campaign chair, attorney Jack Beatty, "Remember, there's always another Neuberger," referring to his wife.

[1][2] Justice of the Oregon Supreme Court Hall S. Lusk was appointed on March 16, 1960, by Republican governor Mark Hatfield to fill the vacancy until a special election could be held.

[5][6] Two elections for the Class 2 Senate seat were held on the same day; one as a special election to fill the remainder of Neuberger's original six-year term, and another to select a Senator to serve the next six-year term.

[8] Cook and Killam were not candidates for the special election to finish Neuberger's term.