Oregonians know something’s not right. We know the current system of government isn’t working.
Partisanship isn’t doing the job.
The general population grows tired of the whole process.
There are those who, in their frustration, will find a target to blame.
Usually it’s those who disagree with them or don’t see the problems or solutions the same way they see them. So rather than truly listening, they lash out.
Problem with that is many voters, or possible voters, are so sick of complainers, the words, even those that really are good, just slip away. I think history called that the clamoring cymbals.
Oregonians have an uncommon, common sense.
I think they’re ready to use it.
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Thank you, Rick. The public deserves to know.
Rick, speaking of broken government please read Steve Duin’s column today about UO hitting rock bottom. The good news is look how much room they have for improvement. Also I know a elderly woman who follows politics but has no internet. She thought you were out of the race. I cleared it up but her perception concerned me so I thought I’d warn you that some people are not clear about your status.
We just think so differently here in the Pac NW. There was a recent (w/in the last few years) study done by either Wazzu or U-dub about religion in our region. They are actually studying several geographic locations around the US, but, for obvious reasons, the one about us is the one I have studied. I also had the pleasure of attending a conference that the main researcher led. Her name escapes me at the moment, but the study is called “The None Zone”. (google it - its fascinating)
The “none” refers to what folks checked on a survey when asked about the church / house of worship they regularly attend. 73% of our population identifies themselves as spiritual and believing in God (my word - “a higher power” might better reflect what the study’s participants said), but when it comes to having a house of worship, they have “none”. Many cite our beautiful outdoors as their temples. The research is fascinating because that view of “religion” (HATE that word) really does fit the NW mentality.
Original Northwest settlers came west to do something different, to challenge the (then) norms. That spirit is our heritage here, and we still do it. We buck trends, challenge societal “rules”, and use, as you state, our uncommon common sense.
I think we showed it in the recent primary election. I think it will be demonstrated in November as well. I think you’ve thrown your hat in the political arena (in its - your hat’s - current form) at just the right time. I, for one, am soooo excited for you.