As a young man, he spent twelve years as an evangelical Christian missionary in California and Australia.

The family's farm has two parcels, one near Hermiston where they raised potatoes and the other near Athena, where they grow dryland wheat.

After receiving his degree, he went on to Harvard University where he earned a certificate from the John F. Kennedy School of Government.

[2][3] While on the board of the national organization, he testified before the United States Congress, advocating for agriculture and rural affairs legislation.

[4] As the 2012 legislative session came to a close, the retiring state senator from District 29, David Nelson, encouraged Hansell to run for his seat.

[3][5] He was a conservative Republican legislator who received a 100 percent score from the Oregon Chamber of Commerce in 2020.

Their aim was to prevent a vote on a cap-and-trade bill that was intended to lower greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 to combat climate change.

[3] Over the course of his political career, Hansell was known for his strong conservative views, honest dealing, and genial manner.

He made the early announcement in order to give potential candidates time to prepare for a senate run.

[2][3] While participating in a Republican-led walkout in May 2023 Hansell reached the 10 unexcused absence threshold set by measure 113, disqualifying him from running for reelection after his current term ends.

[9] After a challenge from five Republican Senators the measure was unanimously upheld by the Oregon Supreme Court on February 1, 2024, confirming Hansell's disqualification after the end of his term in January 2025.