President
Obama is the obvious choice
It’s true that Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton differ only slightly on most issues. You look at their Web sites or listen to campaign speeches and you’ll notice the content is mostly the same: We need emission reductions, oil independence and healthcare reform.
What really distinguishes the candidates, however, is the passion and energy that Obama exudes. The United States needs a leader who will not only change the way the country operates, but also the way it has been perceived by the world for the past eight years.
And although Clinton has the experience to do the job, Obama has convinced us that he is the only leader that can enact the change we need.
U.S. Senate
DemocratNovick knows what we need
Not only does Steve Novick know the issues that affect students, but he also knows how to resolve them. Although he is a politician, he avoids the nasty political games that other candidates fall into. He’s brilliant, knowledgeable and has the fresh perspective that the Senate needs. He also isn’t scared to be radical or upfront, something that Jeff Merkley could take a lesson on.
RepublicanSmith is the only real candidate
Gordon Smith’s record may not be shining, but his experience makes him the most qualified candidate for the job. And, with his only opponent being an ophthalmologist without political experience, he seems to be the only realistic candidate for the party.
Portland Mayor
Adams’ experience trumps
Beyond Sam Adams’ accomplishments as a city commissioner, he worked as former Mayor Vera Katz’s chief of staff for 11 years, spent time with the Oregon House Democratic Campaign Committee and interned for Peter DeFazio. On the city council, he has been an incredible advocate for transportation and sustainability, keeping citizens informed and involved to better both areas.
Most of all, Adams knows the ropes of the Portland political system. He has been engaged and active with citizens during his years as a commissioner, spending multiple nights a month gathering feedback and answering questions at forums and city hall meetings. Although Sho Dozono has shown to be an advocate of public good and an incredibly involved community member, his lack of experience and knowledge of what Portlanders want holds him back.
City Council seat 1
Fritz is involved
Amanda Fritz has been a watchdog of Portland politics for years, commenting on issues and improprieties through her blog. A nurse at OHSU, she is very aware of the problems with the city, such as the faltering public school system, and will come to the city council with fresh ideas and innovative solutions. Although Charles Lewis is a very knowledgeable, intelligent candidate, he represents stagnant Portland politics. Fritz is a refreshing alternative.
City Council seat 2
Fish knows Portland, PSU
Besides being an informed, connected and engaged community member, Nick Fish understands the need for more affordable housing near the University District. He is one of the few candidates who fully understands the complexities of the city, melding the necessity of a vibrant cultural scene with an ability to maintain low transportation, education and housing costs. Plus, Fish’s wife, Patricia Schecter, works at PSU, so Fish will likely keep the university at the forefront of his mind.
City Council seat 4
Keep Leonard
Randy Leonard has been an effective leader in the Portland City Council. No other candidate can match his knowledge or experience, and Leonard has proven to be a selfless city servant.
Attorney General
Kroger has Portland ideals
John Kroger’s innovative ideas and strong track record make him the best candidate for this spot. Not only will he advocate for stronger civil rights laws in the state, but he is also a supporter of penalties for polluters. What else could a Portlander want?
Secretary of State
Brown has experience
Both Kate Brown and Vicki Walker have impressive service in the Oregon House of Representatives and Senate. Brown’s work goes one step further, however, having helped turn the senate to a Democratic majority in 1998, and secured lower healthcare costs for Oregonians. She has the organizational skills necessary for the job. Multiple education and human rights groups, such as NARAL, also endorse her.
U.S. House of Representatives District 1
DemocratWu knows what to do
He’s often accused of ineffectiveness, but David Wu has the experience and reputation to continue doing what the first congressional district needs. He has shown that he is dedicated to helping Oregon universities, particularly Portland State, when he secured millions in funding for the engineering building. Wu has fought to maintain necessary environmental protection and healthcare laws.
RepublicanHaugen fits the bill
Joel Haugen seems to understand the pertinent issues in the state, such as energy independence. His background as a small-business owner and teacher shows that he is connected to the community.
U.S. House of Representatives District 3
DemocratKeep Blumenauer
With his wide range of experience, incredible past performance in the House and deep breadth of knowledge, why would we not reelect Earl Blumenauer? He has been effective in accurately representing the constituents of the third district.
U.S. House of Representatives District 5
DemocratSchrader gets it done
In 2007, Kurt Schrader’s work in the Oregon Senate helped higher education secure one of the highest budgets in recent years. He is a huge proponent of the continued growth of education funding in the state, as well as making huge steps toward healthcare reform.
RepublicanMannix has been there
Kevin Mannix has been around Oregon politics for about two decades. He has served on multiple committees in the Oregon House and Senate and knows his way around state politics. He is, by far, a better and more competent choice than Portland State grad Mike Erickson.