Election Endorsements at a glance – May 2014

Thursday, May 15, is the last day to safely mail in ballots for the Oregon May Primary, which is Tuesday, May 20. After Thursday, drop off ballots at any of the white ballot boxes around town or on campus. Deadline is 8 pm Tuesday. Postmarks don’t count.

Statewide Offices

U.S. Senator (Democrat) — Jeff Merkley

Merkley has two challengers in the primary, William Bryk and Pavel Goberman. Merkley is a rising star in the Senate and a strong voice for economic justice and health care reform.

Oregon Governor (Democrat) —

John Kitzhaber

Kitzhaber has only one challenger in the Democratic primary, Ifeanyichukwu C. Diru. Kitzhaber has served Oregon well in his previous three terms and has shown real, progressive leadership on health care reform and economic issues.

Lane County Commission

County Commission, West Lane Position 1 — Dawn Lesley

Incumbent Jay Bozievich’s angry and divisive tendencies have turned what was already a contentious County Commission into what feels like a circus. Dawn Lesley has stepped up with a smart, organized campaign and promises to be the hard-working, moderate commissioner the diverse West Lane district needs.

County Commission, Springfield Position 2 — Sheri Moore

Incumbent Sid Leiken has been a big disappointment as he follows the divisive lead of Jay Bozievich. We trust Springfield City Councilor Sheri Moore to actually think for herself and better represent her district.

County Commission, East Lane Position 5 — Kevin Matthews

Incumbent Faye Stewart has been unresponsive to environmental concerns in the county. Kevin Matthews has the loudest and most organized roar in this group of contenders and gets our nod. Joann Ernst and Jose Ortal are also both feisty and thoughtful candidates. Jack Schoolcraft has remained a bit of a fringe candidate.

School Bonds

Fern Ridge School District Measure 20-220 — YES

The district is asking for bond sales to renovate aging facilities, make safety improvements and update technology.

Pleasant Hill School District 20-221 — YES

The district is asking for just under $18 million in bond sales to improve school facilities.

State Legislators

No Democratic candidates are contested in the May Primary. On the Republican ballot, only District 7 in our region has a contest, between Cedric Hayden and Gary Williams.

City of Eugene

No Eugene City Council races are contested. EWEB also has two uncontested positions.

City of Springfield

No Springfield City Council races are contested.