I. L. Patterson began his career on a family farm before attending college for a year. He then transitioned into the business world, working as a grocery clerk and later becoming a business partner in Independence for 22 years. Patterson entered politics at age 32, serving in the Oregon State Senate and later as Collector of Customs in Portland. He expanded his business ventures into wool and hide during this period. Patterson returned to the Oregon State Senate, where he chaired the Ways and Means Committee. His leadership culminated in his election as governor, during which he balanced the state budget, improved infrastructure, established the state's higher education system, and reformed the state prison system.

I. L. Patterson's political identity is marked by a fiscally conservative approach, balancing the state budget during a time of financial instability. Patterson's strategic philosophy includes a surprising alignment with progressive policies, such as the establishment of the state's higher education system. His tenure reveals an unexpected convergence with opposing factions on infrastructure investments, suggesting a highly localized strategy. Patterson's legislative record also shows a calculated approach to criminal justice reform by segregating adult and juvenile criminals, revealing an ideologically agile stance.