Current election results are at https://results.oregonvotes.gov/Default.aspx.
As of 5:30 am on Nov. 9th I have 44% of the vote, compared to my opponent’s 56%.
Campaigning for this position was an honor and privilege. Challenges abounded, but that is common with deeply meaningful pursuits. We had numerous wins, like building the network of Democratic and Independent rural voters, which helped folks realize there are many here of like mind and heart. Hundreds of volunteers and individual donors helped me get the word out on important issues, like:
- The sources of inflation (logistical backup 30% and profiteering 60% – masonfororegon.com/inflation has detail)
- Realistic solutions to the housing crisis
- The need for affordable, accessible healthcare
- Standing up for reproductive rights
- Calling out monopolistic big business practices that limit free-market competition and hurt small businesses
- Trauma-informed, effective responses to crime (I’m a licensed security officer, after all!)
- And charting a courageous path forward on climate change to protect our communities and bring high-paying jobs
To come so close was remarkable. I raised $69,000 (mostly from individual donors – thank you!) to my opponent’s $469,000 (mostly from corporate PACs – including Koch Industries, the largest funder of climate change denial).
Thank you especially to our group of postcard writers (12,500 handwritten postcards sent to rural voters!), volunteer canvassers, and phone bankers. Your investment of personal care and positive energy reached so many of our neighbors in Senate District 26.
My interactions with Mr. Bonham on the campaign trail were cordial; I believe he understands that the role of senator is both a great privilege and obligation.
I hope going forward that Sen. Bonham will make a point of attending community and political meetings on the center and left to better represent the interests of approximately 45% of his district. If you lead such an organization or meeting, invite him – and me. I want to stay engaged in supporting our communities as much as my everyday job and personal responsibilities allow.
I will continue the writing and research projects (many of them on political issues about which campaigning has honed my understanding), which I began before running for this position. I welcome you to keep up-to-date and involved. Sign up for free at Patreon (support is much appreciated, though not expected!).
Onward!
Raz