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Mary Doyle

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Meet Mary!

Whether it’s dancing at concerts, skiing at Mount Bachelor, time on a lake with our German Shepherd, or spending time with neighbors and family, this landscape is home. These places remind me every day what we’re working to protect; our public lands, our communities, and the independent spirit that defines Southern and Eastern Oregon.I’m running for Congress because the people who live here deserve someone who understands this place, respects its history, and will fight for its future.

Life in Oregon shapes how I see the world.

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<h2 style="text-align: center;">Invest in Southern and Eastern Oregon’s Future</h2>We’re building a people-powered campaign across Southern and Eastern Oregon.No corporate PAC money. No AIPAC money. No backroom deals.Just neighbors standing up for water, public education, small businesses, and accountable government.If you’re ready to stand with us, contribute today. Keep This Campaign People-Powered <img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/a7e9ff58-4d23-4f0c-8321-52bab8ae8ade/a7e9ff58-4d23-4f0c-8321-52bab8ae8ade.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C3000%2C3000&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="25" variant="framed"><ul><li><a href="https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mary-doyle-2">https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mary-doyle-2</a>OR</li><li><a href="https://donation.c-esystems.com/campaign/marydoyleforcongress">https://donation.c-esystems.com/campaign/marydoyleforcongress</a> </li></ul>

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Southern and Eastern Oregon deserve a representative who fights for working people, not corporations, lobbyists, or political insiders in Washington.My campaign focuses on the issues that matter most in OR-02: lowering health care costs, protecting water and natural resources, strengthening public education, supporting family farms and rural businesses, and restoring accountability in government.Because government should work for the people who live here, not the people who can afford to buy influence in Washington.

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<h3>Hi, I’m Mary Doyle running for Oregon's 2nd District!</h3><img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/be9e6e71-b745-48d0-b2b3-dedd32ae7e07/be9e6e71-b745-48d0-b2b3-dedd32ae7e07.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C640%2C640&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="right" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed"><h2>Hi, I’m Mary Doyle.</h2>I’m running for Congress in Oregon’s 2nd District because Southern &amp; Eastern Oregon deserve leadership that shows up, listens, and delivers.I’m a 20+ year educator, union member, public servant, and proud Oregonian. I’ve spent my career working alongside families in rural and low-income communities, not in Washington boardrooms, but in classrooms, school gyms, and community meetings where real life happens.I’ve served as an Athletic Director, Student Services Coordinator, 2/3rd blend, 3rd, 4th, 5th grade elementary teacher, middle school math, media studies, art, &amp; interventionist teacher, &amp; Teacher on Special Assignment in K-12 Title I schools. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, minor Economics; Portland State University, Masters Teacher Education; Eastern Oregon University, &amp; Professional Administrative Licensure from University of Oregon.Through my unions, I’ve served as a building representative, executive board member, and state and national delegate. I believe in collective action, accountability, and doing the work.Experience Across Local IndustriesBefore and alongside education, I worked across the industries that power this district:<ul><li>United States Forest Service; stewarding public lands and understanding wildfire resilience firsthand</li><li>Grocery and retail; learning the realities of frontline wages and rising costs</li><li>Restaurant and hospitality; from family-owned businesses to resort operations</li><li>Ski patrol and recreation; experiencing the seasonal, tourism-driven economies rural communities depend on <h4 style="text-align: left;">I know what it means to stretch a paycheck. I know seasonal work. I know the hustle. I’ve lived it.</h4></li></ul><h3 style="text-align: left;">Why I’m Running:</h3><ul><li>Families across Southern and Eastern Oregon are feeling squeezed:</li><li>Health care costs are rising while rural clinics and hospitals face uncertainty.</li><li>Housing, groceries, and fuel stretch paychecks thinner each month.</li><li>Water security and land stewardship are essential to our agricultural and rural future.</li><li>Public education; from Pre-K through community college, must prepare our kids for opportunity, not debt.</li><li>And above all, our democracy depends on transparency, accountability, and leaders who respect the rule of law.</li></ul>I’m running as an independent voice on the Democratic ticket because this district deserves problem-solvers, not party-line politics. My focus is simple: restore trust, protect working families, and make sure Oregon’s 2nd District is heard in Washington.

My leadership style was forged in Oregon’s classrooms, where I worked with students facing severe behavioral, academic, and mental-health challenges.I’ve experienced a vast and wide variety of experiences that are difficult, resulting from severe trauma manifesting in real time in classroom and school buildings, and I showed up again the next day to teach. That’s what public service requires, discipline, compassion, and the courage to keep working through the hard experiences regardless of what is said or done to you.

Rep. Cliff Bentz’s vote to object to the 2020 presidential election results and his opposition to the bipartisan infrastructure bill is evidence of his misplaced priorities.When you undermine verified elections and vote against investments that rural Oregonians need, that’s not representation, it’s neglect.&nbsp; I’m running to restore integrity and service to this office.Our campaign will refuse AIPAC and corporate PAC money and prioritize community engagement through open town halls in every county of the district, unlike Rep. Cliff Bentz.&nbsp;

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Southern and Eastern Oregon deserve a representative who listens.Whether you’re a farmer concerned about water rights, a parent navigating public education, a veteran seeking services, or a small business owner feeling the pressure of rising costs, I want to hear from you.Use the form below to:<ul><li>Request a meeting or event appearance</li><li>Share your story or policy concerns</li><li>Ask a question about my platform</li><li>Volunteer or get involved</li><li>Connect about endorsements or community partnerships</li><li>House Party &amp; Fundraising Events</li></ul>

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Southern and Eastern Oregon are speaking up, and we’re listening. Stay up to date on campaign events, policy announcements, media appearances, and momentum building across OR- CD2.

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For more than twenty years, I’ve worked in Oregon’s public schools; teaching, leading, and working directly with families. I’ve sat at kitchen tables, in classrooms, and in community meetings listening to real concerns about health care costs, water security, wildfires risks, and making ends meet.Listening isn’t political for me, it’s personal.That’s the leadership I’ll bring to Congress; grounded, accessible, and accountable to the people of Southern and Eastern Oregon.

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Southern and Eastern Oregon deserve leadership rooted in community — and that starts with you.Sign up to receive campaign updates, event invitations, volunteer opportunities, and policy announcements. Be the first to know where I’ll be across OR-02 and how you can help shape this movement.This campaign isn’t powered by corporate PACs or AIPAC, it’s powered by people.When you sign up, you’re not just joining a mailing list. You’re joining a coalition of educators, farmers, ranchers, small business owners, veterans, tribal members, and working families who believe accountability and opportunity should belong to everyone.Let’s build this together.

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Join us across Southern and Eastern Oregon. From town halls to meet-and-greets, every event is a chance to connect, organize, and build momentum for real change in OR-CD2.

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When Medicaid cuts threaten rural hospitals and politicians undermine election integrity, families pay the price. I will fight to protect health care access and defend free, fair elections — no exceptions.

I’m Running Because Oregon Deserves Protection, Not Politics.

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From protecting rural health care access and safeguarding water rights, to strengthening public education and defending election integrity, these are the issues shaping our district’s future.

What I Will Fight For in Congress

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Citizens’ Impeachment is a nonpartisan movement powered by everyday Americans with a unifying mission: to uphold the Constitution of the United States and impeach, convict, and remove officials who violate their oath of office.

Courage Candidate

The Center for Freethought Equality is the advocacy and political arm of the American Humanist Association. The Center for Freethought Equality advocates for issues the humanist and atheist community cares about like the separation of church and state, protecting civil liberties, and advancing progressive policies.

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Progressive Voter Network is a grassroots effort to highlight progressive candidates dedicated to changing our political, social, &amp; economic landscape for good.

"This midterm is similar to 2018, and the right Dem in CD2 (Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District) will make the race competitive. Enough people have asked, so I’ll weigh in. When it comes to policy, understanding of CD2, and ability to be competitive in the general, the two that stand out are Mary Doyle and Dawn Rasmussen. It’s a good group, and I enjoyed listening to them when I co-hosted the Jefferson Co. Dem candidate forum. I encourage you to vote for Dawn or Mary. "

Former CD2 Canidate

Jamie McLeod-Skinner

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<a href="https://vimeo.com/1190542513?share=copy&amp;fl=cl&amp;fe=ci&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawRsS4JleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6TlA1bzMwMmJDTFd6V3ZZc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHu80-B7AxjUPe5vuXXCjLVRhIe86xZnZW1pv26Y_y1fbuoLgdd9EFSwPpkx3_aem_GOCOLF11kIUAebJc4IvVEg">https://vimeo.com/1190542513?share=copy&amp;fl=cl&amp;fe=ci&amp;fbclid=IwY2xjawRsS4JleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF6TlA1bzMwMmJDTFd6V3ZZc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHu80-B7AxjUPe5vuXXCjLVRhIe86xZnZW1pv26Y_y1fbuoLgdd9EFSwPpkx3_aem_GOCOLF11kIUAebJc4IvVEg</a>

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LWVOR Congressional District 2 Forum

Recording here: <a href="https://youtu.be/s4F1zu9Swr8?si=ZYBZMpesM3qJnsvl" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://youtu.be/s4F1zu9Swr8?si=ZYBZMpesM3qJnsvl</a>

 COINversations: April 22, 2026 C-2 Forum with U.S. House candidates for Oregon's 2nd District

<a href="https://youtu.be/s4F1zu9Swr8?si=zUcJqBnm89oOiMIu" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://youtu.be/s4F1zu9Swr8?si=zUcJqBnm89oOiMIu</a>

Article: <a href="https://archive.ph/Dyofn" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://archive.ph/Dyofn</a>Video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3s8xR7A8DtE">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3s8xR7A8DtE</a><img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/1821b523-0d7f-4074-a7dd-9196fa8aeb4e/1821b523-0d7f-4074-a7dd-9196fa8aeb4e.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2268%2C4032&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">

Forum Video Link: https://youtu.be/3s8xR7A8DtE?si=xxu1DZty480CNJuj

Candidates Swing by Ontario

Six Democratic candidates running in the May 19 primary to represent Oregon's 2nd District join this COINversation recorded April 22, 2026. These guests include Chris Beck, Mary Doyle, Rebecca Mueller, Peter Quince, Dawn Rasmussen, and Patty Snow. More links and information can be found at <a href="https://thecoinchronicle.org/c-2-forum/">https://thecoinchronicle.org/c-2-forum/</a>. The Consolidated Oregon Indivisible Network (COIN) is made up of Indivisible groups from all over Oregon. We collaborate to protect democracy and implement progressive values through voter outreach and education, campaigns and elections, holding elected leaders accountable, and advocating for legislation that best reflects our values. Learn more at: <a href="https://coinoregon.org">https://coinoregon.org</a>Recording here: <a href="https://youtu.be/s4F1zu9Swr8?si=BhAaidSdadObFwmG">https://youtu.be/s4F1zu9Swr8?si=BhAaidSdadObFwmG</a>

COINversations: April 22, 2026 C-2 Forum U.S. House candidates

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<a href="https://ashland.news/democrats-eye-crossover-voters-as-four-candidates-vie-for-nomination-in-oregons-2nd-district/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://ashland.news/democrats-eye-crossover-voters-as-four-candidates-vie-for-nomination-in-oregons-2nd-district/</a>

Democrats eye crossover voters as four candidates vie for nomination in Oregon’s 2nd District

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Take BAC Congress Signatory Google Meeting

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Take BAC Congress Google Meeting

In person and via Zoom. Link provided prior to event.

Crook County Democrats CD2 Congressional Candidates Forum

Our upcoming forum will give local residents a chance to hear directly from the candidates about their vision for Congressional District 2 and their priorities for economic development, public health, the environment, and rural healthcare.

Crook County Democrats Forum

<a href="https://ktvz.com/news/2026/04/27/oregons-2nd-congressional-district-candidates-to-participate-in-virtual-forum/">https://ktvz.com/news/2026/04/27/oregons-2nd-congressional-district-candidates-to-participate-in-virtual-forum/</a>

Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District candidates to participate in virtual forum

Hosted by Jackson County Democrats. Learn about democracy , how to get out the vote, and who is running for office. Zoom link posted day before here.

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Central Point, Oregon Lead Where You Live Library Series

Hosted by Jackson County Democrats. Learn about democracy , how to get out the vote, and who is running for office. Zoom link here: <a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88651328352?pwd=y9XqHRVBNkLlV9ibrqJTuNT9PBAqCy.1">https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88651328352?pwd=y9XqHRVBNkLlV9ibrqJTuNT9PBAqCy.1</a> Meeting ID: 886 5132 8352 Passcode: 605070

On March 28, 2026, five Democratic candidates for the US House of Representatives visited Four Rivers Cultural Center in Ontario Oregon for this candidate forum. The candidates are seeking the seat for Oregon’s Second Congressional District, which is currently held by Republican Cliff Bentz.Link to forum: <a href="https://youtu.be/3s8xR7A8DtE?si=atNsQSiZAk-nmVOV">https://youtu.be/3s8xR7A8DtE?si=atNsQSiZAk-nmVOV</a>

Democratic Candidate Forum - Oregon's Second District - March 28, 2026 @ Ontario, OR

Jefferson County Candidate Forum

Candidates running to replace Cliff Bentz are holding forums across the District. Join us in Madras April 12 at 1pm to get to know them!

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Courage Candidates Weekly Zoom Meeting

<a href="https://citizensimpeachment.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://citizensimpeachment.com/</a>

Courage Candidates Weekly Zoom Meeting

Lead Where You Live Library Series

Keynote speaker Dr. Rosa Colquitt, candidate Mary Doyle and others. Contact Jean Lamb <a href="mailto:tlambs1138@charter.net">tlambs1138@charter.net</a> for tickets.

Klamath County Democrats Fundraiser Dinner &amp; Speakers

Klamath Falls, Oregon Democrats Fundraiser Dinner

Link to event video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBVtCld8I_w">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBVtCld8I_w</a>

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBVtCld8I_w" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBVtCld8I_w</a>

Oregon's 2nd Congressional District Democratic Candidates Forum in Grants Pass

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gu6cGxl3jWM" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gu6cGxl3jWM</a>

Oregon's 2nd Congressional District Democratic Candidates Forum in Klamath Falls

Mosier, Oregon, Democrat Meeting

Cost to file candidate statement is $2,500. Click donate button to contribute to filing fee. Democracy does cost money unfortunately. My difference is I am people powered.

Candidate Statement Voters Pamphlet for May Primary Due

<a href="https://rv-times.com/2026/02/03/four-democrats-eye-crossover-voters-in-or-district-2-primary/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://rv-times.com/2026/02/03/four-democrats-eye-crossover-voters-in-or-district-2-primary/</a>

Four Democrats eye crossover voters in OR District 2 Primary

<a href="https://wallowa.com/2026/04/22/dems-vying-for-bentzs-seat-address-finances-in-pendleton-forum/">https://wallowa.com/2026/04/22/dems-vying-for-bentzs-seat-address-finances-in-pendleton-forum/</a>

Dems vying for Bentz’s seat address finances in Pendleton forum

Lead Where You Live Library Series: White City

<h3>What I Believe</h3>America is strongest when we lead with diplomacy, respect international law, and keep our commitments.For too long, Washington has treated foreign policy like a game played by lobbyists, defense contractors, and political insiders. Meanwhile, rural communities like ours were told there was never enough money for health care, infrastructure, or schools.Endless wars cost trillions of dollars while our communities were left behind.Foreign policy should protect American security, strengthen our economy, defend human rights, and prevent conflict, not enrich contractors or drag our country into wars without accountability.Congress must reclaim its constitutional authority over war. Human rights must apply to everyone. And American workers and manufacturers must be protected from unfair global competition.<h1>Diplomacy &amp; Peace</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>War should always be the last resort.Strong diplomacy, international cooperation, and conflict prevention keep Americans safer than reckless escalation.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Restore diplomacy as the first tool of foreign policy. Reinvest in diplomatic capacity, international partnerships, and conflict prevention.Support Ukraine while pursuing negotiated peace. Ukraine has the right to defend itself against Russian aggression. The United States should continue supporting Ukraine while working aggressively toward a negotiated settlement that prevents a prolonged war.Strengthen alliances. Partnerships with democratic allies create stability and reduce the risk of conflict.<h1>War Powers &amp; Military Accountability</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>The Constitution is clear: Congress, not the President, has the power to declare war.Presidents of both parties have stretched that authority for decades.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Repeal outdated war authorizations. The 2001 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force have been used far beyond their original purpose.Restore congressional oversight of military action. No president should be able to launch wars or military strikes without congressional authorization.Reduce Pentagon waste and contractor profiteering. America’s defense budget should prioritize real security, not corporate profits.<h1>Democracy &amp; Human Rights</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>Human rights and international law must apply consistently. Selective enforcement destroys credibility and fuels instability.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Apply human rights standards to all military aid. U.S. assistance must comply with international law and the Leahy Laws, which prohibit aid to units committing human rights violations.End blank-check military aid. All security assistance should be conditioned on compliance with human rights obligations.Support free speech and civil liberties. Americans should never be punished for participating in peaceful political movements like boycotts.Address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Credible evidence shows Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has resulted in catastrophic civilian harm and credible allegations of genocide. The United States must support an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access, and a diplomatic resolution that ensures security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians.<h1>Trade &amp; Economic Fairness</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>Trade policy should work for American workers, farmers, and manufacturers, not just multinational corporations.Unfair trade practices hollowed out rural economies and sent good jobs overseas.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Adopt fair trade standards. Trade agreements must include enforceable labor protections and environmental safeguards.Reshore critical manufacturing. Strategic industries must be rebuilt in the United States to strengthen economic security.Confront unfair Chinese trade practices. China’s government heavily subsidizes national industries and manipulates markets to undercut American manufacturing. The United States should respond with targeted sanctions and trade enforcement while maintaining diplomatic engagement.<h1>Global Climate Leadership</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>Climate change is one of the greatest security threats of the 21st century.Drought, displacement, and resource conflict are already destabilizing regions around the world.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Rejoin and strengthen the Paris Climate Agreement. The United States must lead global climate action, not retreat from it.End international fossil fuel subsidies. American tax dollars should not fund fossil fuel expansion abroad. Full stop.Invest in climate resilience and international cooperation. Helping countries adapt to climate impacts reduces instability and migration pressures.<h1>Nuclear Security</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>The use of nuclear weapons would be catastrophic for humanity.Reducing the risk of nuclear war must remain a global priority.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Adopt a No First Use policy. The United States should commit to never initiating nuclear conflict.Rebuild arms control agreements. Diplomacy and verification treaties are essential for global stability.<h1>Global Development &amp; Stability</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>Foreign aid should reduce instability, strengthen democratic institutions, and improve global health.It should never be a blank check for corruption.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Support global health and humanitarian assistance. Preventing disease outbreaks abroad protects Americans at home.Invest in regional stabilization. Economic development and infrastructure reduce forced migration and conflict.Strengthen anti-corruption safeguards. Foreign assistance must include strong transparency and accountability standards.<h1>Contrast: Cliff Bentz</h1>Congressman Cliff Bentz has repeatedly supported policies that undermine congressional oversight of war and prioritize corporate interests over accountability.While rural communities struggle with rising costs and underfunded services, Washington continues approving massive defense budgets with little scrutiny.I believe in a different approach:• Diplomacy before war • Congressional authority over military force • Human rights applied consistently • Trade policies that protect American workers • Ending corporate profiteering from endless conflictForeign policy should serve the American people—not defense contractors and political insiders.

America is strongest when we lead with diplomacy, defend human rights, and follow the Constitution. For too long, Washington has allowed endless wars, unchecked military spending, and corporate interests to drive foreign policy while rural communities here at home were left behind. I believe Congress must reclaim its authority over war, human rights must apply to everyone, and trade policies must protect American workers and farmers from unfair global competition. Our foreign policy should prevent conflict, strengthen alliances, confront authoritarian threats, and invest in stability, not enrich defense contractors or drag our country into unnecessary wars.

Foreign Policy

Hosted by Jackson County Democrats. Learn about democracy , how to get out the vote, and who is running for office.

Lead Where You Live Library Series: Jacksonville

Hosted by Jackson County Democrats. Learn about democracy , how to get out the vote, and who is running for office.

Jacksonville, Oregon: Lead Where You Live Library Series

In Southern and Eastern Oregon, we value independence, personal responsibility, and fairness. Election integrity means two things at the same time:<ul><li>Every eligible citizen can vote easily.</li><li>Every lawful ballot is counted accurately.</li></ul>We do not have to choose between access and security. We can, and must, have both.<h2>Protecting Access</h2>Oregon leads the nation in secure vote-by-mail. I support defending and strengthening it.<ul><li>Protect vote-by-mail with strong signature and ID verification</li><li>Expand automatic voter registration, including at tribal agencies and community colleges</li><li>Support open primaries and ranked-choice voting to give independents a real voice</li><li>Restore and strengthen the Voting Rights Act</li><li>Ensure rural counties have equal access to drop boxes and ballot services</li></ul>Voting should not depend on income, transportation, or geography.<h2>Citizenship &amp; Verification</h2>Only legal U.S. citizens should vote in federal elections.Oregon’s system ties registration to driver’s license verification of identity and citizenship. That works. But safeguards must never function as a poll tax.<ul><li>Maintain citizenship verification standards</li><li>Ensure documentation access is affordable</li><li>Protect against administrative barriers that disproportionately impact rural and low-income voters</li></ul>Election integrity means lawful participation, without economic exclusion.<h2>Security &amp; Technology Safeguards</h2>Foreign interference and AI-driven disinformation are modern threats.<ul><li>Increase federal funding for county election cybersecurity</li><li>Require paper ballot backups and risk-limiting audits</li><li>Establish federal guardrails on AI deepfakes in campaigns</li><li>Protect election workers from intimidation</li></ul>Trust is built through transparency, not fear.<h2>Ending Big Money Corruption</h2>Election integrity is not just about ballots. It’s about who funds campaigns.<ul><li>Overturn Citizens United</li><li>Ban corporate PAC money</li><li>Implement small-donor public financing</li><li>Require full transparency of dark money</li><li>Support independent redistricting commissions</li></ul>Politicians should not choose their voters, and billionaires should not choose our representatives.<h1>Contrast</h1><h1>Cliff Bentz</h1><ul><li>Voted against expanded federal voting protections.</li><li>Continues to defend the Citizens United framework that floods elections with corporate money.</li><li>Aligns with national rhetoric that undermines confidence in elections without offering structural reform.</li></ul>Integrity cannot be selective.

Free. Fair. Secure. Protect vote-by-mail. Verify citizenship. Expand access. End dark money. Election integrity means every legal vote counts, and billionaires don’t buy the outcome.

Election Integrity

Lead Where You Live Library Series: Ashland

Ashland, Oregon Lead Where You Live Library Series

Meet Josephine County Commissioner Candidate Matt Spurlock, Oregon House District 3 Candidate Susan Fischer-Maki, and Oregon CD2 Candidates Mary Doyle &amp; Dawn Rasmussen

Takilma: Candidate Meet & Greet

Four Democratic candidates running for Oregon's 2nd congressional district participated in an early candidates forum in The Dalles on November 9, 2025: Mary Doyle (Bend), Rebecca Mueller (Medford), Dawn Rasmussen (The Dalles), and Patty Snow (Rogue Valley). There was a great turnout as there is much interest in this race. People are very frustrated with our current Republican Rep, Cliff Bentz, who has demonstrated over and over again that his loyalty is to his party, not to his constituents. Check out these great candidates, one of whom will be running against him next November. We have four better choices!Link to forum video: <a href="https://youtu.be/J_NXlS09ioU?si=ZWbQth9Cg0BnO2as">https://youtu.be/J_NXlS09ioU?si=ZWbQth9Cg0BnO2as</a>

CD 2 Candidate Forum: The Dalles

<h2>What I Believe</h2>Family farms, ranches, and working forests are the backbone of Oregon’s 2nd District. Water security and public land access are foundational to our rural economy. Stewardship and economic stability must go hand in hand.<h2>Water Security &amp; Land Stewardship</h2>Protect irrigation access. Defend reliable water delivery for farmers and ranchers while respecting tribal treaty rights and science-based management.No public land sales or access denial. Public lands and public water belong to the people, not corporations, hedge funds, or speculators.Multiple use done right. Recreation, grazing, conservation, and cultural uses balanced transparently and sustainably.Watershed investment. Support upstream restoration, soil health practices, and drought resilience projects that protect downstream communities.<h2>Strengthening Family Agriculture</h2>Family-farm priority. USDA programs must prioritize small and mid-size producers — not just the largest operations.Right-to-repair. Farmers and ranchers should be able to fix their own equipment without corporate lockouts driving up costs.Soil and water health incentives. Reward conservation practices that reduce runoff, conserve irrigation supplies, and strengthen long-term productivity.<h2>Forestry &amp; Timber</h2>Active forest management. Science-based thinning, restoration logging, and fuel reduction to reduce catastrophic wildfire risk.Local mill stability. Support small and mid-size mills with predictable supply contracts and workforce development.Stewardship contracting. Keep restoration and timber projects in the hands of local contractors and communities.Value-added wood products. Invest in mass timber and innovative wood markets that keep jobs in Oregon.No corporate land consolidation. Prevent hedge fund acquisition of working forests that extract profits while hollowing out local jobs.<h2>Data Center Guardrails</h2>Public land and public water are not corporate infrastructure.No subsidies without enforceable local benefits:• Binding local job guarantees • Prevailing wage requirements • Community benefit agreements • Transparent water-use reportingIf public resources are used, rural communities must benefit first.<h2>Accountability &amp; Rule of Law</h2>Fair rules protect everyone.Follow the science and the law. No backroom deals involving land or water.Transparency. Public reporting on land exchanges, leases, water transfers, and enforcement actions.

Family farms, ranches, and working forests are the backbone of Oregon’s 2nd District. I will protect water security, strengthen support for small and mid-size producers, defend public land access, and ensure rural communities benefit, not outside corporations or speculators. Stewardship and economic stability must go hand in hand.

Agriculture, Water &amp; Working Lands

<a href="https://eastoregonian.com/2026/05/01/oregon-cd2-candidates-discuss-rural-issues/">https://eastoregonian.com/2026/05/01/oregon-cd2-candidates-discuss-rural-issues/</a>

Oregon CD2 candidates discuss rural issues

Organized by the League of Women Voters chapters for Deschutes and Klamath Counties, Rogue Valley, Umpqua Valley, and Union County. Supported by the League of Women Voters of Oregon and the American Democracy Project at Eastern Oregon University.

Bipartisan Candidate Forum; League of Women Voters

<h3>What I Believe</h3>In the United States, no one is above the law.Not presidents. Not members of Congress. Not billionaires. Not foreign-influenced lobbyists.Every elected official swears an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States.That oath is not symbolic. It is a binding duty.When leaders violate the Constitution, abuse power, cover up crimes, or betray the public trust, Congress has both the authority and the obligation to act.The Constitution provides the tools:<ul><li>Congressional oversight</li><li>Subpoena power</li><li>Independent investigations</li><li>Impeachment</li><li>Conviction and removal from office</li></ul>The problem in Washington is not that these tools don’t exist.The problem is too many politicians are afraid to use them.Americans are watching powerful people evade consequences for corruption, financial influence, sexual misconduct, and abuse of office. That erosion of accountability is poisoning our democracy.I will not ignore it.I will use the authority of Congress to restore the rule of law and rebuild trust in government.<h1>Policy Priorities</h1><h2>Enforce the Constitutional Oath</h2>Members of Congress swear to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.That means:<ul><li>Defending democratic institutions</li><li>Upholding separation of powers</li><li>Preventing abuse of executive authority</li><li>Protecting elections from interference</li></ul>When a president violates the Constitution or federal law, Congress must be willing to investigate, impeach, and remove them from office.Donald Trump is already a convicted felon and adjudicated sexual assaulter, and the American people deserve full transparency about any additional crimes involving abuse of power, corruption, or exploitation.The presidency does not place anyone above the law.<h2>Release the Epstein Files</h2>The American people deserve the truth.The full Epstein files must be released, with appropriate protections for victims, so the public can see who participated in or enabled Jeffrey Epstein’s trafficking network.No political party should shield anyone from accountability.If powerful individuals, including elected officials or presidents, are implicated in criminal exploitation, they must be investigated and prosecuted.Justice cannot depend on wealth or status.<h2>End the Congressional Sexual Harassment Slush Fund</h2>For years, members of Congress quietly used taxpayer money to settle sexual harassment claims brought by congressional staff.That is unacceptable.If an elected official sexually harasses or abuses a staff member:<ul><li>Taxpayers should not pay settlements</li><li>The member should be personally liable</li><li>The misconduct should be publicly disclosed</li><li>Ethics investigations should be automatic</li></ul>Staff should never have to sacrifice their safety or dignity to work in government.<h2>Ban Congressional Stock Trading</h2>Members of Congress routinely trade stocks in industries they regulate.That is a direct conflict of interest.I support:<ul><li>A full ban on individual stock trading by members of Congress</li><li>Blind trusts for financial holdings</li><li>Real-time financial disclosure requirements</li></ul>Public office should not be a path to insider profit.<h2>End the Revolving Door</h2>Too many politicians leave office and immediately become high-paid lobbyists influencing the very laws they once wrote.That corrupts policy and undermines public trust.I support:<ul><li>A long cooling-off period before former members of Congress can lobby</li><li>Stronger restrictions on lobbying by former senior staff</li><li>Full transparency for lobbying activities</li></ul>Public service should not be a stepping stone to cashing in.<h2>Overturn Citizens United</h2>The Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision opened the floodgates for unlimited corporate money in politics.As a result:<ul><li>Billionaires dominate elections</li><li>Corporate PACs shape legislation</li><li>Dark money floods campaigns</li></ul>We must restore democracy by:<ul><li>Passing a constitutional amendment overturning Citizens United</li><li>Enacting strong campaign finance transparency laws</li><li>Limiting corporate and billionaire influence in elections</li></ul>Government should represent people, not money.<h2>Regulate Foreign Influence</h2>Foreign governments and foreign-aligned lobbying networks spend enormous sums trying to influence American policy.This includes pressure from countries such as:<ul><li>China</li><li>Russia</li><li>other authoritarian governments</li><li>and powerful lobbying groups representing foreign governments, including AIPAC</li></ul>All lobbying tied to foreign governments must be fully transparent and strictly regulated under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA).American policy must be made in the interests of the American people, not foreign governments or their lobbying networks.<h2>Restore Supreme Court Accountability</h2>The Supreme Court now operates under weaker ethics rules than every other federal court.That is unacceptable for the most powerful court in the country.I support:<ul><li>Binding ethics rules for Supreme Court justices</li><li>Strong disclosure requirements for gifts and travel</li><li>Independent ethics investigations when violations occur</li><li>Term limits for justices to restore public trust</li></ul>No branch of government should operate without accountability.<h2>Strengthen Whistleblower Protections</h2>Whistleblowers are often the first line of defense against corruption.They expose:<ul><li>illegal surveillance</li><li>financial fraud</li><li>abuse of power</li><li>national security failures</li></ul>We must strengthen federal whistleblower protections so people can report wrongdoing without fear of retaliation.<h1>The Bentz Contrast</h1>Congressman Cliff Bentz rarely speaks about corruption, accountability, or enforcing the constitutional oath.Instead, he has consistently aligned himself with party leadership that defends Donald Trump, even after:<ul><li>a felony conviction</li><li>an adjudicated sexual assault ruling</li><li>repeated attacks on democratic institutions</li></ul>At a time when our democracy needs strong oversight, Bentz has chosen silence and party loyalty over accountability.Oregon deserves a representative willing to defend the Constitution even when it is politically inconvenient.I will.<h1>Why This Matters</h1>The rule of law is the foundation of democracy.When powerful people believe they will never face consequences:<ul><li>corruption spreads</li><li>institutions weaken</li><li>public trust collapses</li></ul>Restoring accountability is not about partisan politics.It is about protecting the constitutional republic our founders created.

No one is above the law, not presidents, members of Congress, billionaires, or foreign lobbying groups trying to influence American policy. Every elected official swears an oath to defend the Constitution, and that oath must mean something. I will fight for real accountability: banning congressional stock trading, overturning Citizens United, ending taxpayer-funded harassment settlements in Congress, enforcing ethics laws, and demanding transparency when powerful people abuse their power. Our democracy only works when leaders answer to the people.

Accountability &amp; Rule of Law

<h2>Water: Wells, Rivers, and Rights</h2>What I believe: Water is life. Rural families, tribes, farms, fish, and wildlife all depend on reliable, clean water.Policy<ul><li>Private well protection first. Federal mapping of aquifers, emergency funding for well deepening/filtration, and contamination cleanup with strict enforcement.</li><li>Honor treaties &amp; senior rights. Uphold tribal water rights and collaborative basin management, especially in places like the Klamath Basin.</li><li>Drought resilience. Aquifer recharge, leak reduction, and on-farm efficiency grants that save water without bankrupting family farms.</li><li>Polluter pays. Enforce Clean Water Act standards equally in rural and urban Oregon..</li></ul>Data Center Guardrails (Water)No industrial project, including data centers, may draw from over-allocated aquifers, dry up wells, or hide water use. Full disclosure, enforceable withdrawal limits, and automatic mitigation for affected residents.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/f3dc6f5a-82a8-4e24-aa4d-8b77f29e8efd/f3dc6f5a-82a8-4e24-aa4d-8b77f29e8efd.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2448%2C2448&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Prineville Reservoir Aug. 2015 &amp; June 2020" align="center" alignwidth="42" variant="framed">Prineville Reservoir Aug. 2015 &amp; June 2020<h2>Fishing: Healthy Runs, Open Access</h2>What I believe: Fishing is culture, food security, and small-town economy. Conservation works when access is protected.Policy<ul><li>Habitat first. Restore riparian zones, remove barriers, and improve stream flows to rebuild salmon and trout runs.</li><li>Science-based seasons. Protect spawning while keeping family fishing traditions alive.</li><li>Access guaranteed. Protect public river access points from privatization or exclusion.</li></ul>Data Center Guardrails (Fisheries)Projects must prove no net harm to stream flows or water temperature; mitigation funding is mandatory where impacts are unavoidable.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/633ae9e7-8f39-43f6-b154-e15c1ad716df/633ae9e7-8f39-43f6-b154-e15c1ad716df.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C3024%2C4032&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Deschutes River photo credit Jim Doyle" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Deschutes River photo credit Jim Doyle<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/3b60f117-2713-43d0-bfc1-49e48b26c7c5/3b60f117-2713-43d0-bfc1-49e48b26c7c5.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C3024%2C4032&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Big Fish photo credit Jim Doyle" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Big Fish photo credit Jim Doyle<h2>Hunting: Conservation Works When Hunters Are Partners</h2>What I believe: Hunters fund conservation and know the land. Wildlife policy must be science-led and fair.Policy<ul><li>Science-led wildlife management. Balanced predator/prey decisions guided by biologists, not politics.</li><li>Habitat investment. Use Pittman-Robertson funds to improve winter range and migration corridors. (<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF12229">https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF12229</a>)</li><li>Public access protected. No pay-to-play schemes that fence out local families.</li></ul>Data Center Guardrails (Wildlife)No siting that fragments habitat or blocks access corridors; mitigation and access guarantees are non-negotiable.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/0bd28ebb-32c3-4d96-a22e-1b27ac319152/0bd28ebb-32c3-4d96-a22e-1b27ac319152.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C4032%2C3024&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Yes, our family hunts!" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Yes, our family hunts!<h2>Forests, Logging &amp; Rural Jobs</h2>What I believe: Healthy forests mean jobs and safety. Stewardship beats neglect.Policy<ul><li>Active forest management. Mechanical thinning and prescribed fire to reduce catastrophic wildfire risk.</li><li>Local mills, local workers. Keep value-added processing in rural Oregon; prioritize safety and fair wages.</li><li>Sustainable yield. Log where it makes forests healthier; protect old growth and sensitive habitat.</li><li>Community partnership. Stable funding and collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service and counties.</li></ul>Data Center Guardrails (Forests)No projects that increase wildfire risk via new transmission without fire-hardening, local response funding, and liability for infrastructure-sparked fires.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/1ef68d21-0609-48a1-aae3-ae3099060890/1ef68d21-0609-48a1-aae3-ae3099060890.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C3024%2C3024&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Off the beaten path in the Wilderness." align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Off the beaten path in the Wilderness.<h2>Wildfire: Prevent the Megafires</h2>What I believe: Fire seasons shouldn’t bankrupt communities or shut down schools.Policy<ul><li>Front-end prevention. Thinning, prescribed burns, and defensible-space grants.</li><li>Rapid response. Modernize detection, aviation, and initial attack capacity.</li><li>After-fire recovery. Rebuild watersheds, roads, and homes, fast and fair.</li></ul>Data Center Guardrails (Fire)No siting in high-risk zones without mitigation; companies must fund prevention and response proportional to risk.<h2>Public Lands: Not for Sale. Not for Lock-Up.</h2>What I believe: Public lands are a birthright. They belong to the publicPolicy<ul><li>No sales to corporations, hedge funds, or speculators. Full stop.</li><li>No access denial. Prevent land grabs that gate, fee, or exclude the public.</li><li>Multiple use, done right. Recreation, grazing, conservation, and cultural uses balanced transparently.</li><li>Local stewardship agreements. Tribes, counties, and local contractors.</li></ul>Data Center Guardrails (Public Lands)Public lands and public water are not corporate infrastructure. No land swaps, exclusive leases, or access restrictions to benefit private data centers.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/b270ef3d-7d17-4bba-afd8-0837695241d8/b270ef3d-7d17-4bba-afd8-0837695241d8.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C2448%2C2448&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="Moms &amp; Kids Camping Trip in Oregon CD2" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">Moms &amp; Kids Camping Trip in Oregon CD2<h2>Agriculture &amp; Rangelands</h2>What I believe: Family farms and ranches are stewards, not scapegoats.Policy<ul><li>Family-farm priority. Target USDA support to small and mid-size producers.</li><li>Right-to-repair. Keep equipment affordable and fixable.</li><li>Soil &amp; water health incentives. Practices that reduce runoff and protect downstream communities.</li></ul>Data Center Guardrails (Rural Economies)No subsidies without binding local job guarantees, prevailing wages, and community benefit agreements.<h2>Accountability &amp; Rule of Law</h2>What I believe: Fair rules protect everyone.Policy<ul><li>Follow the science and the law. No backroom deals with public resources.</li><li>Transparency. Public reporting on land exchanges, leases, and enforcement actions.</li></ul>Bentz’s pattern: Emphasizes “development first,” with fewer enforceable guardrails on water use, grid priority, and public-land access.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/39a2b867-c89b-4a70-8639-e11967836bff/39a2b867-c89b-4a70-8639-e11967836bff.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1080%2C1350&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">

Stewardship, not exploitation. Manage land and water so they work for generations.Public lands belong to the public. Access for families, hunters, anglers, tribes, and small businesses, not corporate lock-ups.Local voices matter. Decisions should be science-based and locally informed.Rule of law &amp; accountability. Treaties honored. Polluters pay. Transparency required.

Natural Resources

Lead Where You Live Library Series: Jackson County

<a href="https://ashland.news/ashland-voters-face-packed-ballot-ahead-of-may-primary-as-key-deadline-looms/">https://ashland.news/ashland-voters-face-packed-ballot-ahead-of-may-primary-as-key-deadline-looms/</a>

Ashland voters face packed ballot ahead of May primary as key deadline looms

<h3>1. Wages That Reflect Reality</h3><ul><li>Raise the federal minimum wage and index it to inflation so workers don’t fall behind every year. </li><li>Support prevailing wage protections on federally funded projects to stop undercutting local workers. </li><li>End federal policies that allow corporations to classify workers as “independent contractors” to dodge wages and benefits. </li></ul>Contrast: Bentz has consistently opposed wage protections backed by labor and has aligned with business groups resisting minimum-wage increases.<h3>2. The Right to Organize Without Retaliation</h3><ul><li>Pass the PRO Act to protect workers’ freedom to unionize and bargain collectively. </li><li>End union-busting tactics, captive-audience meetings, and employer retaliation. </li><li>Ensure agricultural, domestic, and service workers, often excluded, have full labor protections. </li></ul>Contrast: Bentz has opposed or voted against legislation strengthening collective bargaining and has taken positions aligned with anti-union interests.<h3>3. Safe Jobs, Strong Enforcement</h3><ul><li>Fully fund OSHA and strengthen penalties for repeat violators. </li><li>Protect whistleblowers who report unsafe or illegal practices. </li><li>Address the rise in workplace injuries and heat-related deaths, especially in agriculture, construction, and wildfire response. </li></ul>OR-CD2 reality: From mills to fields to hospitals, workers know safety rules don’t matter if they’re never enforced.<h3>4. Healthcare &amp; Paid Leave Are Labor Issues</h3><ul><li>Guarantee paid sick leave, paid family and medical leave, and predictable scheduling. </li><li>Decouple healthcare from employment by moving toward universal coverage, so losing a job doesn’t mean losing care. </li><li>Stop employers from cutting hours to avoid benefits. </li></ul>Contrast: Bentz has voted against expansions of worker-centered healthcare protections and paid leave initiatives.<h3>5. Retirement Security &amp; Fair Scheduling</h3><ul><li>Protect Social Security, no cuts, no raising the retirement age. </li><li>Expand access to retirement plans for rural and small-business workers. </li><li>End abusive on-call scheduling practices that destabilize family life. </li></ul><h3>6. Trade, Manufacturing, and Rural Jobs</h3><ul><li>Support fair trade, not race-to-the-bottom outsourcing. </li><li>Invest in domestic manufacturing, forest products, and value-added agriculture with strong labor standards attached. </li><li>Tie federal subsidies and tax incentives to job quality, wages, and local hiring. </li></ul>Difference in approach: I won’t vote for corporate giveaways with no worker protections attached.<h3>7. No Corporate Capture of Labor Policy</h3><ul><li>Ban members of Congress from trading stocks tied to industries they regulate. </li><li>Close the revolving door between Congress and corporate lobbying firms. </li></ul>Ensure workers, not hedge funds or private equity, benefit from federal labor and economic policy.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/c998e793-6a8f-4d45-9c58-0f889f3e4ffb/c998e793-6a8f-4d45-9c58-0f889f3e4ffb.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1080%2C1350&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">

Work should pay. Safety should be guaranteed. A job should come with dignity, not fear.

Labor and Worker's Rights

<a href="https://www.opb.org/article/2026/04/20/oregon-2nd-congressional-district-democratic-primary-candidates/">https://www.opb.org/article/2026/04/20/oregon-2nd-congressional-district-democratic-primary-candidates/</a>

6 Democrats compete to unseat Bentz in Oregon’s 2nd Congressional District

Link to article archive: <a href="https://archive.ph/6NoE1#">https://archive.ph/6NoE1#</a>

Oregon's 2nd congressional district Democratic candidates weigh in on issues

<h4>1. Move Toward a Single-Payer Health Care System</h4><ul><li>Support a transition to a universal, single-payer system that guarantees comprehensive coverage for every American. </li><li>End the inefficiency of employer-based coverage that ties health care to jobs and leaves rural workers, seasonal workers, and small businesses at risk. </li><li>Reduce administrative waste, duplication, and billing complexity that currently drains billions from patient care.</li></ul>During the transition:<h4>2. Bust Health Care Monopolies &amp; Vertical Integration</h4><ul><li>Break up vertically integrated health care corporations that control insurance, hospitals, pharmacies, drug distribution, and physician practices under one corporate umbrella. </li><li>Enforce antitrust laws to stop consolidation that drives up prices, limits patient choice, and shuts down rural hospitals and independent clinics. </li><li>Ban private equity and corporate practices that extract profits at every step of the health care process while cutting staff and services.</li></ul><h4>3. Protect and Expand Coverage</h4><ul><li>Defend Medicaid and Medicare against cuts, privatization, or voucher schemes. </li><li>Expand eligibility and benefits so working families, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities are not forced to choose between care and basic necessities. </li><li>Oppose policies that strip coverage through work requirements, bureaucratic barriers designed to push people off coverage, or funding caps. </li></ul><h4>4. Lower Costs for Patients</h4><ul><li>Allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices across all medications. </li><li>Cap out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions, including insulin and life-saving medications. </li><li>End surprise billing and predatory medical debt practices. </li></ul><h4>5. Fix Rural Health Care Access</h4><ul><li>Invest in rural hospitals, clinics, and emergency services to prevent closures across Eastern and Southern Oregon. </li><li>Expand telehealth permanently, with broadband investment so rural patients can actually use it. </li><li>Support mobile clinics and community health centers to reach remote communities. </li></ul><h4>6. Strengthen the Health Care Workforce</h4><ul><li>Increase pay, loan forgiveness, and retention incentives for nurses, EMTs, mental health providers, and rural physicians. </li><li>Protect collective bargaining rights for health care workers and address unsafe staffing ratios that endanger patients and workers alike. </li><li>Address burnout and unsafe staffing ratios that put both workers and patients at risk. </li></ul><h4>7. Mental Health &amp; Addiction Care</h4><ul><li>Treat mental health and substance use care as essential health care, not optional add-ons. </li><li>Expand crisis response teams and community-based treatment, especially in rural counties. </li><li>Prioritize prevention, harm reduction, and long-term recovery over incarceration. </li></ul><h4>8. Reproductive &amp; Preventive Care</h4><ul><li>Defend full access to reproductive health care, including contraception and abortion care.. </li><li>Protect preventive services like cancer screenings, prenatal care, and well-woman exams, without cost barriers. </li></ul><h4>9. Environmental Health Is Public Health</h4><ul><li>Hold polluters accountable when contaminated water, wildfire smoke, or toxic exposure harms community health. </li><li>Protect private wells and drinking water from corporate and industrial contamination. </li><li>Invest in public health infrastructure to respond to climate-driven health threats.</li></ul> <h2>Core Contrast: My Approach vs. Cliff Bentz</h2><h4>Rule of Law vs. Power Without Accountability</h4><ul><li>Bentz consistently aligns with efforts that erode checks and balances, shield executive abuse, and weaken congressional oversight. </li><li>I believe no one is above the law—not presidents, not corporations, not members of Congress. </li></ul><h4>Care Over Corporate Profit</h4><ul><li>Bentz votes to protect corporate consolidation in health care, insurance, and pharmaceuticals—driving higher costs and fewer rural providers. </li><li>I support moving toward a single-payer system and breaking up vertically integrated health care monopolies that profit at every step while patients and providers lose. </li></ul><h4>Rural Oregon as People, Not Talking Points</h4><ul><li>Bentz uses rural Oregon rhetorically while voting for policies that close rural hospitals, underfund Medicaid, and cut public health protections. </li><li>I start with access, workforce retention, and public health infrastructure, because rural health care is about survival, not ideology. </li></ul><h4>Independence vs. Donor Capture</h4><ul><li>Bentz accepts money from industries he is supposed to regulate. </li></ul>I run a people-powered campaign and am accountable to voters—not corporate PACs, not special interests.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/c9d3ac69-2be7-4b23-b116-8b5d99b72ddc/371d494f-0492-4954-aa46-f5cafaaaaa55/371d494f-0492-4954-aa46-f5cafaaaaa55.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C1080%2C1350&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="center" alignwidth="50" variant="framed">

Health care is a public good. Where you live, how much you earn, or who your employer is should never determine whether you can see a doctor, afford medication, survive an emergency, or go into lifelong debt.

Health Care 

<h3>What democratic backsliding looks like in rural Oregon, and why OR-2 is not a lost cause</h3><a href="https://the2nddistrictledger.substack.com/p/send-us-a-scrapper">https://the2nddistrictledger.substack.com/p/send-us-a-scrapper</a>

Send Us a Scrapper

<a href="https://ashland.news/four-democratic-women-vie-to-challenge-rep-cliff-bentz-in-oregons-2nd-district/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://ashland.news/four-democratic-women-vie-to-challenge-rep-cliff-bentz-in-oregons-2nd-district/</a>

Four Democratic women vie to challenge Rep. Cliff Bentz in Oregon’s 2nd district

<a href="https://youtu.be/J_NXlS09ioU?si=EnL-rHqX3hE7agWP">https://youtu.be/J_NXlS09ioU?si=EnL-rHqX3hE7agWP</a>

CD 2 Candidate Forum: The Dalles

Link will post the day of or a day before.

Lead Where You Live Library Series: Ashland

Campaign Team Meeting 6

Campaign Team Meeting 2

Harney County Democrats Monthly Meeting

<h1>Veterans’ Affairs</h1><h2>What I Believe</h2>If you served this country, this country must show up for you. Full stop.Veterans deserve timely health care, mental health support, stable housing, and real economic opportunity, not red tape and delays.<h2>Policy Priorities</h2>Protect and expand VA access in rural Oregon. No cuts to VA clinics. No reductions in rural outreach. Telehealth and mobile services must supplement care, not replace physical access where it’s needed.End delays and backlog. Streamline disability claims processing and increase staffing to reduce wait times for benefits and medical appointments.Mental health &amp; suicide prevention. Fully fund evidence-based suicide prevention programs, expand rural mental health providers, and ensure crisis services are available locally.Veteran housing stability. Prioritize housing vouchers, transitional housing partnerships, and rapid rehousing programs to prevent veteran homelessness before it starts.Workforce transition support. Strengthen GI Bill protections, prevent predatory for-profit school targeting, and expand apprenticeship pathways tied to local industries.<h2>Rural VA Guardrails</h2>Veterans in Eastern and Southern Oregon should not have to drive hours for basic care.• Maintain in-person services in rural communities • Protect transportation assistance programs • Ensure contract providers meet VA quality standards • Guarantee telehealth access where broadband exists, and expand broadband where it doesn’tAccess should not depend on ZIP code.<h2>Accountability</h2>VA funding must go to care, not administrative bloat or contractor waste.I support regular public reporting on wait times, staffing levels, and rural service availability so families know whether commitments are being met.

Veterans who served our country deserve timely health care, reliable benefits, and real support, especially in rural communities. I will protect and strengthen VA access in Southern and Eastern Oregon, reduce disability claim backlogs, expand mental health and suicide prevention services, and ensure no veteran has to drive hours for care that was earned through service.

Veteran's Affairs

<a href="https://ktvz.com/news/top-stories/2026/03/17/crook-county-democrats-to-host-congressional-candidate-forum-in-prineville/">https://ktvz.com/news/top-stories/2026/03/17/crook-county-democrats-to-host-congressional-candidate-forum-in-prineville/</a>

Crook County Democrats to host congressional candidate forum in Prineville

Umatilla County Candidate Forum

Oregon CD2 Bi-Partisan Candidate Forum via Zoom

<a href="https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/play/Ni7QDJOQ6NN2KRE_fPtIrcjEIjseIYudZCLSEijgZ-NXJulhJrhKs5sLGvUHBgdqKKpX7TMrfecv1eHf.v57ZyYimam3OvP-x?eagerLoadZvaPages=sidemenu.billing.plan_management&amp;accessLevel=meeting&amp;canPlayFromShare=true&amp;from=share_recording_detail&amp;continueMode=true&amp;oldStyle=true&amp;iet=yix-_z-qVcSg_s1nX6DFXDofh_aDUBcv33lAL_VFZDY.AG.5zaURsUNGNTvNtpr5rqJs81utlD-nTX4DJT8CSjaI9Tli8qxtHk9Cm8msIHvZfqGz-1WP6Nt3OCvea41dtM6NDagICEBptJAjtMoInRCELfvTiD7zUSV1_ZwLPsNm0tmQjjbZFw_AkDSaLD2.FOVy_NiWHKPP4U7a1_P3Yg.SJgmOrt0nOGE1yix&amp;componentName=rec-play&amp;originRequestUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fus06web.zoom.us%2Frec%2Fshare%2FGDNcxU2x6SVYKRETOrPMwgVMd66lb5xBhDsMs5PH8XGAeXDNmEoPwb6QwGXz7HEo.llR6UYynUgC8riUa%3Fiet%3Dyix-_z-qVcSg_s1nX6DFXDofh_aDUBcv33lAL_VFZDY.AG.5zaURsUNGNTvNtpr5rqJs81utlD-nTX4DJT8CSjaI9Tli8qxtHk9Cm8msIHvZfqGz-1WP6Nt3OCvea41dtM6NDagICEBptJAjtMoInRCELfvTiD7zUSV1_ZwLPsNm0tmQjjbZFw_AkDSaLD2.FOVy_NiWHKPP4U7a1_P3Yg.SJgmOrt0nOGE1yix" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/play/Ni7QDJOQ6NN2KRE_fPtIrcjEIjseIYudZCLSEijgZ-NXJulhJrhKs5sLGvUHBgdqKKpX7TMrfecv1eHf.v57ZyYimam3OvP-x?eagerLoadZvaPages=sidemenu.billing.plan_management&amp;accessLevel=meeting&amp;canPlayFromShare=true&amp;from=share_recording_detail&amp;continueMode=true&amp;oldStyle=true&amp;iet=yix-_z-qVcSg_s1nX6DFXDofh_aDUBcv33lAL_VFZDY.AG.5zaURsUNGNTvNtpr5rqJs81utlD-nTX4DJT8CSjaI9Tli8qxtHk9Cm8msIHvZfqGz-1WP6Nt3OCvea41dtM6NDagICEBptJAjtMoInRCELfvTiD7zUSV1_ZwLPsNm0tmQjjbZFw_AkDSaLD2.FOVy_NiWHKPP4U7a1_P3Yg.SJgmOrt0nOGE1yix&amp;componentName=rec-play&amp;originRequestUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fus06web.zoom.us%2Frec%2Fshare%2FGDNcxU2x6SVYKRETOrPMwgVMd66lb5xBhDsMs5PH8XGAeXDNmEoPwb6QwGXz7HEo.llR6UYynUgC8riUa%3Fiet%3Dyix-_z-qVcSg_s1nX6DFXDofh_aDUBcv33lAL_VFZDY.AG.5zaURsUNGNTvNtpr5rqJs81utlD-nTX4DJT8CSjaI9Tli8qxtHk9Cm8msIHvZfqGz-1WP6Nt3OCvea41dtM6NDagICEBptJAjtMoInRCELfvTiD7zUSV1_ZwLPsNm0tmQjjbZFw_AkDSaLD2.FOVy_NiWHKPP4U7a1_P3Yg.SJgmOrt0nOGE1yix</a>

Oregon CD2 Candidate Forum via Zoom

In this interview with candidate Mary Doyle, who is competing in the Democratic primary in Oregon's 2nd Congressional District, I ask questions relating to: voter outreach, jobs, AI, the environment, and much more. View here: <a href="https://youtu.be/O-oUwCsNR1E?si=O2zcwZmQ7TWYTl6C">https://youtu.be/O-oUwCsNR1E?si=O2zcwZmQ7TWYTl6C</a>

<a href="https://youtu.be/O-oUwCsNR1E?si=k8I1XVWvl7wKz1I3">https://youtu.be/O-oUwCsNR1E?si=k8I1XVWvl7wKz1I3</a>

Unsound America Podcast Interview with Host Kyle Porter

Crook County Democrats Monthly Meeting

Candidate, Mary Doyle attended in person.

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