 Following graduation he would take his editorial capability to the world of politics, becoming editor of the "Oregon Democrat Magazine," a publication of the Democratic Party of Oregon.In November 1974, Kerans won election to the Oregon House of Representatives from Lane County, a position he would continue to hold through five terms of office.During his 10-year career in the Oregon House, Kerans would serve as Chair of the Elections Committee and Rules Committee, and as the floor whip for the majority Democrats.