Easy Voting Guide
Oregon General Election November 3, 2020
You must turn in your ballot by Tuesday, November 3 at 8:00 PM Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 2
Table of Contents
About this guide 4 Assistance with voting 5 Who can vote? 6 How do I register to vote? 7 How do I vote? 8 How should supports act during the voting process? 10 What is a General Election? 11 What is Oregon Motor Voter? 12
Candidates 13 US President 13 US Senator 20 US Representatives 22 Secretary of State 38 State Treasurer 45 Attorney General 50 Judge of the Supreme Court 53 Judge of the Court of Appeals 54
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Ballot measures 55 Measure 107 55 Measure 108 57 Measure 109 58 Measure 110 59
Oregon Voter Bill of Rights 62 Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 4 About this guide
The Easy Voting Guide is published by Disability Rights Oregon (DRO). The Easy Voting Guide is designed to be accessible to people with disabilities. DRO does not endorse any candidates.
DRO invited candidates to submit their statements and priorities in September. DRO gave candidates guidelines for writing in plain English. DRO asked candidates to limit their statements to 250 characters. DRO did not edit or change their statements. DRO cut off statements that were more than 250 characters. DRO used photos and lists candidates in the random order of letters of the alphabet as provided by the Secretary of State. DRO summarized costs and arguments for and against ballot measures. DRO based arguments on arguments provided in the Voters’ Pamphlet. DRO used guidelines for plain English and journalistic style guides to write summaries. 5 Assistance with voting
You have the right to private and independent voting. You do not have to tell anyone how you voted. If you need assistance to read or fill out a ballot, call your county elections office or 866-ORE- VOTE (866-673-8683). Accommodations include:
• Large Print Ballot
• Alternate Format Ballot: If you can use your own computer to read and fill out forms, you can access the Alternate Format Ballot at oregonvotes.gov. You must still print it and return it on time, in a signed envelope.
• Tablet and Alternate Format Ballot: Every elections office has a tablet computer and printer. You can use it to read, fill out, and print the Alternate Format Ballot. You can make the text bigger, use a screen reader, and use the touch screen or easy buttons to mark your choices. You can do this at the elections office. Or they can bring it to your home. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 6
• Voter Assistance Team: Your county elections office can assist you to register, vote, or return your ballot.
• Someone you choose: You can ask anyone you want to help you vote. Your employer, your union, or an agent of your employer or union cannot help you. Anyone who helps you must mark the ballot the way you want. They should not try to influence you.
• Signature Stamp Attestation: You can use a stamp or other mark as your signature if you aren’t able to sign your name. You must fill out a form first. Contact your county elections office.
If you have any problems or questions about your rights, contact the Disability Rights Oregon voting hotline at 888-339-VOTE (8683).
Who can vote? You can vote if you are a US Citizen, an Oregon resident, and 18 years old. You cannot vote if you are currently in prison serving time for a felony conviction. 7
You can vote if you are in jail or prison, but not convicted of a felony. Your vot- ing rights are restored after you get out from prison for a felony. You have the right to vote when you have a guardian or live in an institution or living facility.
How do I register to vote? You can register online at oregonvotes.gov, on a paper form, or in-person at your county elections office. Please contact your county elections office about in-person voter registration during COVID-19. You should update your registration if you move, change your name or mailing address, or want to select or change a political party. You can update your registration online at oregonvotes.gov, on a paper form, or at your county elections office. If you need to find out if you are registered, you can check online at oregonvotes.gov or call 866-ORE-VOTE (866-673-8683). Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 8 How do I vote? Oregon is a vote-by-mail state.
Get your ballot: You will get your ballot in the mail 2 weeks before the election. If you think you are registered but did not receive a ballot by October 22, you can check online at oregonvotes.gov or call 866-ORE-VOTE (866-673-8683) to find out your status. You have the right to a new ballot at any time.
Fill out your ballot: Once you have decided how to vote, mark your choices.
• You can leave any race blank. This is called an “undervote.”
• You can write in a candidate for any race.
• If you vote for more choices than allowed, it is called an “overvote.” Your vote will not count.
• You have the right to a new ballot if you make a mistake or lose your ballot. Call your county elections office. 9
Put your ballot in the envelope: Put your ballot in the optional secrecy envelope or optional secrecy sleeve and put that in the return envelope. Your vote will still count if you forget the secrecy envelope.
Sign the return envelope: You must sign your ballot return envelope in order for the elections office to be able to count your vote. If you are not able to sign because of a disability, contact the county elections office about a Signature Stamp Attestation.
Turn in your ballot: By 8pm on Tuesday, November 3 (Election Day). You can find a dropbox at www.sos.state.or.us/dropbox or by calling your county elections office. If you are mailing it, make sure it will arrive on time. No stamp is needed. Postage is paid.
To find out if you are registered, you can check online at oregonvotes.gov or call 866-ORE-VOTE (866-673-8683). Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 10
How should supports act during the voting process?
Tips from the Oregon Self Advocacy Coalition
• Before voting, review the Easy Voting Guide or Voters’ Pamphlet with the person you are supporting to vote.
• Encourage the person to write down or bring up questions during the preparation process.
• Describe your role: to help someone to vote. You are not there to tell them who or what to vote for. You are there to help the person you are supporting to vote.
• Help during the voting process by assisting someone with communication or requesting the necessary accommodations. 11
Is your polling place accessible? The Department of Justice created an “ADA Checklist for Polling Places.” Parking, passenger drop-off places, sidewalks, the building, and the voting area must be accessible. If your ballot box or county elections office is not accessible, please call the Disability Rights Oregon voting hotline at 888-339-VOTE (8683).
What is a General Election?
Voters will vote for candidates and ballot measures. Measures are questions or issues that voters decide on. You can vote for a candidate in any party.
Everyone can vote for President, US Senator, US Representative, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and State Treasurer. Some voters can also vote for local candidates like Mayor, Sheriff or Commissioner. Everyone can vote on statewide ballot measures. Some voters can also vote for local ballot measures for their city, county, or district. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 12 What is Oregon Motor Voter? If you are eligible to vote and go to the Oregon DMV to get a license, permit, or ID card, automatic voter registration is available. After you visit the DMV, you will get a card and envelope from the Oregon State Elections Office. With this card, you have three options:
• Do nothing. You will be registered to vote in 21 days as a nonaffiliated voter (not a member of a political party).
• Choose a political party by returning the card. Joining a political party will allow you to vote in its primary elections.
• Use the card to opt-out and decline to register to vote.
After you register, you will receive a ballot and instructions in the mail. 13 Candidates
Candidates
US President Overview: Voters choose a President every 4 years. • Runs the US government and the army • Approves or rejects US laws • Creates a budget for spending US tax money • Works with leaders from other countries
All Candidates for US President:
*Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide.
Donald J Trump*/Michael R Pence Republican
Joseph R Biden/Kamala D Harris Democrat
Jo Jorgensen*/Jeremy (Spike) Cohen Libertarian
Howie Hawkins/Angela Walker Pacific Green
Dario Hunter/Dawn Neptune Adams Progressive Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 14 US President
Joseph R Biden Democrat www.JoeBiden.com
City where I live: Wilmington, DE
Skills: Former Vice President of the United States. Former U.S. Senator. Former county councilmember, attorney, public defender. Syracuse University College of Law (J.D.); University of Delaware (B.A.)
3 things I will do if I win:
1. Biden knows that Americans need quality health care, now more than ever--especially the one in four Americans with disabilities. As Vice President, he worked to pass the Affordable Care Act, protecting 100 million Americans with pre-existing conditions and ending annual and lifetime caps. 15 Candidates US President
Joseph R Biden, continued
2. Joe Biden is running to rebuild a stronger, more inclusive middle class, where everyone gets a fair return on their work and an equal shot to get US ahead, including Americans with disabilities. He knows how to rebuild a battered economy: as Vice President, he administered the 2009 Recovery Act.
3. Joe Biden knows American history isn’t a fairytale. We’ve never lived up to our founding promise of equality for all – but we’ve never quit trying. Throughout his career, Biden has fought for the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities – working to pass the Rehabilitation Act. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 16 US President
Howie Hawkins Pacific Green www.howiehawkins.us
City where I live: Syracuse, New York
Skills: Retired Teamster warehouse and construction worker. Marine Corps veteran. Dartmouth College. Three-time Green Party candidate for New York governor in 2010, 2014, and 2018. First US candidate to campaign for a Green New Deal in 2010.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. CLIMATE ACTION – An Ecosocialist Green New Deal featuring public enterprise and planning to rapidly rebuild the power, transportation, manufacturing, buildings, and agricultural sectors for 100% clean energy and zero to negative greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
2. ECONOMIC JUSTICE – An Economic Bill of Rights: Job guarantee. Guaranteed income above poverty. Affordable 17 Candidates US President
Howie Hawkins, continued housing for all. Improved Medicare for All. Tuition-free public education from child care and pre-K through college and trade school. Retirement security by doubling Social Security.
3. PEACE – End the endless wars. US troops home. Cut military spending by 75%. No First Use of nuclear weapons. Disarm to Minimum Credible Deterrent. Negotiate mutual nuclear disarmament with nuclear powers. Sign the new Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 18 US President
Dario Hunter Progressive dariohunter.com
City where I live: Youngstown, Ohio
Skills: Rabbi; anti-fracking and anti-war activist. Former environmental attorney, teacher, and Youngstown, OH School Board member. BA, Princeton Univ.; LLB, Univ. of Windsor; JD, Univ. of Detroit Mercy; LLM, Wayne State Univ.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. End murders by police, judicial inequality, educational and environmental racism.
End segregation of neighborhoods, employment and healthcare discrimination, and ableism in services.
Empower and invest in democratic, diverse local leadership. 19 Candidates US President
Dario Hunter, continued
2. End corporate money in politics, guarantee a living wage, Medicare for all, free college, housing, utilities, food, and universal basic income.
Invest in worker-owned, community- owned and green businesses.
End war and its profits.
3. End our use of oil and gas and work with other nations as equals to end the threat of climate change.
Switch to 100% renewable energy (such as solar, wind, etc.) and
Invest in easy to access, widespread public transportation. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 20 US Senator
US Senator Overview:
Voters choose US Senators every 6 years. There are 2 US Senators from Oregon.
• Represent Oregonians in US government
• Create US laws
• Vote on US laws and budget
• Oversee US government
All Candidates for US Senator: *Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide
Jo Rae Perkins* - Republican
Jeff Merkley* - Democrat, Working Families, Independent
Ibrahim A Taher - Pacific Green, Progressive
Gary Dye* - Libertarian 21 Candidates US Senator
Ibrahim A Taher Pacific Green, Progressive www.IbrahimTaher.com
City where I live: Eugene
Skills: Philosopher, teacher and researcher.
3 things I will do if I win: 1. Our country has been controlled by imperialists for decades and has been engaged in wars, covert operations, and CIA backed coups for reasons unrelated to our securities but rather to achieve global dominance and maintain the economic hegemony. I will fight to end our endless wars.
2. Corporate greed and control on our country has created enormous damage, devastated societies, and hijacked our democracy: 1. Corporate greed has been unleashed in our country for a long time until it corrupted our politics. I will work on banning corporate contribution to candidates’ campaigns. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 22 US Senator
Ibrahim A Taher, continued 3. Our country under the leadership of Democrats and Republicans is stepping toward authoritarianism and limited freedoms under different pretexts: 1. I will work on expanding the protection of whistleblowers and prohibit the use of the espionage act in prosecuting whistleblowers.
US Representatives
US Representatives Overview:
Voters choose US Representatives every 2 years. There are 5 US Representatives from Oregon. You vote for 1 in your district.
• Represent Oregonians from their district in US government
• Create US laws
• Vote on US laws and budget
All Candidates for US Representative: *Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide. 23 Candidates US Representatives
US Representative, 1st District Suzanne Bonamici - Democrat, Working Families Christopher C Christensen* - Republican
US Representative, 2nd District Robert Werch - Libertarian Cliff Bentz* - Republican Alex Spenser - Democrat
US Representative, 3rd District Earl Blumenauer* - Democrat, Working Families Joanna Harbour - Republican Alex C DiBlasi - Pacific Green Josh Solomon - Libertarian
US Representative, 4th District Daniel Hoffay* - Pacific Green Peter A DeFazio* - Democrat, Working Families, Independent Alek Skarlatos - Republican
US Representative, 5th District Matthew James Rix - Libertarian Amy Ryan Courser* - Republican Kurt Schrader - Democrat Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 24 US Representative, 1st District
Suzanne Bonamici Democrat, Working Families www.bonamiciforcongress.com
City where I live: Washington County
Skills: I worked my way through community college, college, and law school. I started my career as a consumer advocate. I am fighting for the health of our community, our children’s future, and economic relief for families and small businesses.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. We need an economy that works for everyone. To help Oregonians during COVID and after, I support infrastructure investments, workforce training, affordable housing, unemployment, direct payments, and help for small businesses.
2. All students deserve an excellent public education. I will continue to work for affordable childcare, high quality early childhood education, fully funding 25 Candidates US Representative, 1st District
Suzanne Bonamici, continued
IDEA, well-rounded K-12 education, reducing high-stakes testing, and debt-free college.
3. We must protect our planet for future generations. I helped write a Climate Action Plan that will reduce carbon emissions, invest in renewable energy, protect our ocean, and create millions of new good-paying jobs. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 26 US Representative, 2nd District
Robert Werch Libertarian robertwerch.com City where I live: Grants Pass
Skills: Bachelor prepared Registered Nurse certified in Flight, Critical Care, and Emergency Room Nursing.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. Limiting government spending and living within our means is the first step in assuring the financial security of the nation and our currency. This is of the upmost importance right now with the rising debt of our nation and financial outlook of our future. Stop spending what we don’t have.
2. By limiting government spending, we’ll be able to reduce the tax burden on the citizens and corporations of United States. This will encourage 27 Candidates US Representative, 2nd District
Robert Werch, continued economic growth and put more money in the pockets of the people who should be making the decisions, the average citizen.
3. Lady Liberty is a beacon of freedom around the world, she needs to shine her light for the citizen’s of the nation to lead us back to liberty and freedom for all people within our own boarders again. Less government and more freedom.
US Representative, 2nd District
Alex Spenser Democrat www.SPENSER2020.com
City where I live: Klamath Falls Skills: Occupational Background: Poet; Motivational Speaker; Campaign-Strategist, Writer, Performance-Coach - Raz Mason for Oregon, Jamie McLeod-Skinner for Congress. Writer, Coach - www. WordsWithWings.com. Educational Background: Texas A&M University, Richland College Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 28 US Representative, 2nd District
Alex Spenser, continued
3 things I will do if I win: 1. We need a Path to Unity. We are a divided country, and it is time that Congress comes together to do the hard work of communication to restore our government so that it can work for the good of everyone.
2. Once thought of as idealistic - Universal Healthcare has become a practical solution. Many lost their Healthcare when they lost their jobs due to the pandemic. We need Healthcare as a matter of good government infrastructure that cares for everyone as a basic right.
3. We need to care for our Infrastructure from roads, bridges and broadband to an elevated high-speed-rail system that connects Oregon and provides a relief- valve in a catastrophic earthquake. We also need to work to bring folks together to ensure we have enough clean-cold- healthy water. 29 Candidates US Representative, 3rd District
Joanna Harbour Republican www.joanna4oregon.com
City where I live: Estacada
Skills: Self-employed entrepreneur, independent caregiver. Background: Attorney, business owner, office manager. Education: Willamette University College of Law, J.D.; Northwest Nazarene University, B.A., Political Science. Prior Governmental Experience: Branding Committee, Estacada
3 things I will do if I win:
1. We need law and order. I oppose riots and looting. I’ll work to incentivize leaders to uphold laws. For safe communities there must be adequate funding for first responders. Accountability is also important, not just for law enforcement agencies, we need transparency on how tax payer money is spent. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 30 US Representative, 3rd District
Joanna Harbour, continued
2. A vital economy is necessary for our society. It is important to support small businesses and help them grow and expand. It is also important to help farms to be able to thrive in a changing market. I will fight for Oregon’s small businesses and farms, not huge out-of- state or foreign corporations.
3. It’s possible to cut costs of health insurance with more coverage options while protecting preexisting conditions. We cannot afford universal health care controlled by a government agency wielding excessive power to limit our medical options. We must have medical freedom. 31 Candidates US Representative, 3rd District
Alex C DiBlasi Pacific Green
City where I live: Portland
Skills: Teacher, minister, activist, former journalist 3 things I will do if I win:
1. I support Medicare for All. Healthcare should be free for everyone. The cost of healthcare is forcing many Americans to choose between groceries and seeing the doctor. It should not be like this. 2. Universal Basic Income, or UBI, is a living wage provided for all people by the government. I believe Americans need monthly UBI payments of $2500 to help cover costs, especially during COVID.
3. The Green New Deal will help America shift its power supplies to sources that do not harm the planet. The GND will also create 20 million new jobs as we make this change, while also fixing our highways and creating nationwide transit. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 32 US Representative, 3rd District
Josh Solomon Libertarian
City where I live: Portland
Skills: B.S. Chemistry, UC Santa Cruz, 2010. M.S. Applied Economics, UC Santa Cruz, 2011.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. I will produce legislation to end the wars in Syria and Afghanistan. These wars are ultimately about resource exploitation as Syria has immense oil reserves and Afghanistan has the largest untapped lithium reserve in the world, worth over $1 trillion according to the USGS.
2. Inadequate land management practices have led to widespread destruc- tion from wild fires. Native Americans have been performing controlled burns for millenia prior to colonization. Controlled burns are necessary for forest health and will prevent uncontrolled wild fire damage. 33 Candidates US Representative, 3rd District
Josh Solomon, continued 3. Climate models suggest that fission energy must become a dominant energy source in order to reduce the effects of anthropogenic climate change. I will support 4th generation thorium-based fission power generation. This technology is the safest form of fission energy.
US Representative, 4th District
Alek Skarletos Republican alekfororegon.com
City where I live: Roseburg
Skills: Occupation: Real Estate Investor, Public Speaker. Occupational Background: Army National Guard Sniper, Author, Actor. Educational Background: Roseburg High School, Umpqua Community College, Army Basic Leadership Course. Prior Governmental Experience: National Guard Sniper Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 34 US Representative, 4th District
Alek Skarletos, continued
3 things I will do if I win:
1. Term Limits & Reform. In D.C., I will fight to enact term limits and support legislation that would ban former congressmen from becoming lobbyists.
2. Prescription Drug Costs & Health Care
I will stand up to pharmaceutical companies and fight to lower the cost of prescription drugs. I will always protect those with pre-existing conditions.
3. China
China has been abusing the United States for far too long, and it is time to take a stand. COVID-19 has shown us that we must return to manufacturing essential medical equipment domestically, so that we can ensure the safety of our citizens. 35 Candidates US Representative, 5th District
Matthew James Rix Libertarian
City where I live: Oregon City
Skills: I am pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, I have an associates degree in Occupational Studies. I am currently employed as a Field Service Engineer in the Semiconductor industry. I served for 5 years in the United States Navy as a submarine Sonar Technician.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. Work to cut taxes for the all income earners but focusing on those making less than 140k/year.
2. I spent years in the Navy and I know from first hand experience how utterly wasteful and ineffective it is. That ineffectiveness puts our service people at risk and our country at risk. I also know that these endless wars against adjectives are only acting to enflame tensions. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 36
US Representative, 5th District
Matthew James Rix, continued
3. I would also work toward eliminating overly burdensome regulations from the healthcare market so that true competition can once again flourish and bring down costs. The federal government limits our supply of doctors, nurses, and medical supplies through frankly ludicrous laws.
US Representative, 5th District
Kurt Schrader Democrat www.kurtschrader.com
City where I live: Canby
Skills: Before being elected to Congress I was a veterinarian, small business owner, and farmer. I received degrees from Cornell University and University of Illinois.
3 things I will do if I win: 37 Candidates US Representative, 5th District
Kurt Schrader, continued
1. Covid-19 has made things difficult for many in Oregon. I supported a bill to help keep people employed, help those that lost their job, and protect our health care workers. If elected I will keep supporting those who need help during this tough time.
2. I have worked hard to pass bills to bring down high drug costs many have been paying. Many people still do not have health care they can pay for. I will keep finding ways to bring down health care costs so everyone can see a doctor when they need to.
3. I have always put our schools first. I support Career and Technical Education programs that help kids gain new skills, learn a trade, and get good jobs. I will keep working to reduce the cost of college to help students finish without a lot of debt. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 38 Secretary of State
Secretary of State Overview:
Voters choose a Secretary of State every 4 years.
• Runs elections
• Audits government agencies: makes sure they spend tax money how they are supposed to
• Keeps government records
All Candidates for Secretary of State: *Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide
Nathalie Paravicini - Pacific Green, Progressive
Kyle Markley - Libertarian
Kim Thatcher - Republican, Independent
Shemia Fagan - Democrat, Working Families 39 Candidates Secretary of State
Nathalie Paravicini Pacific Green, Progressive pacificgreens.org/nathalie_paravicini
City where I live: Portland
Skills: I am a Naturopathic Doctor serving as a Primary Care Physician in Oregon. I focus on behavioral health and complex chronic illness; more than half of my patients or more are on OHP/Medicaid. I have prior experience in technical advisory committees for Episcopal Health Charities.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. Strengthen the Democratic process in Oregon. 1) Be fair and objective when setting the voting district maps. The results of the 2020 census will be used to draw new voting districts in the US. If the Legislature cannot agree over changes for the new boundaries, the duty falls to the Secretary of State. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 40 Secretary of State
Nathalie Paravicini, continued
2. Make economic decisions to shift wealth from the financiers to the producers. It is those doing the work who make our common well-being possible. The Secretary of State serves on the “State Land Board”. The role of the Board should be to manage public lands to fund services long-term.
3. Focus on the needs of small businesses, the pillars of a healthy economy. The Secretary of State registers the documents that create corporations, large and small. Starting or running a small business involves a lot of paperwork. As a proactive Secretary of State I will promote cooperation.
41 Candidates Secretary of State
Kyle Markley Libertarian http://kylemarkley.org
City where I live: Hillsboro Skills: Engineer at Intel working on tools to understand problems in microprocessors. Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Iowa State University. Served on an Oregon campaign finance reform task force.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. Oversee a free and fair election system and make it easier for everyone to participate in politics.
2. Make public records more accessible on the internet.
3. Oversee audits of government systems to ensure your taxes are spent responsibly. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 42 Secretary of State Kim Thatcher Republican, Independent kimthatcher.com
City where I live: Keizer Skills: I have served in the Oregon Legi- slature since 2005 in both the House and Senate. I have owned a commercial construction business. I serve on a variety of legislative committees focused on transparency and public records, as well as the Judiciary committee. 3 things I will do if I win: 1. The Secretary of State manages the Corporations Division. I will ensure the office is working to help Oregon businesses grow and thrive so they can hire their neighbors and keep our economy on track. 2. The Secretary of State has the responsibility to Audit state and local government. As Secretary of State, my goal will be to use the audits to ensure our programs work, especially our critical human services, and use the results of audits to inform lawmakers and the Governor about what we need to do. 43 Candidates Secretary of State
Kim Thatcher, continued 3. The Secretary of State manages our elections. Voters are likely going to approve Measure 107, a statewide campaign finance reform ballot measure. If I’m elected, my goal will be to help make recommendations so that we get hold campaign finance violators accountable.
Secretary of State Shemia Fagan Democrat, Working Families www.shemiafororegon.com
City where I live: Milwaukee
Skills: Bridging divides, resolving conflict, personal management, budgeting.
3 things I will do if I win: Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 44 Secretary of State
Shemia Fagan, continued
1. My mom was homeless for most of my life. As Chair of the Senate Housing Committee, I championed first in-the- nation renter protections. I’ll continue that fight as Secretary of State because too many Oregonians are still homeless or housing insecure.
2. I know what it’s like to live on the edge. That’s why I’ve spent my career fighting for Oregonians’ civil rights. Marginalized Oregonians deserve to know that their government is working for them and they will not face obstacles to voting.
3. I’m proud that my campaign is powered by working people. Big corporations and wealthy elites should not be able to buy access to politicians. Campaign finance limits should be established to amplify working people’s voices and limit corporate power. 45 Candidates State Treasurer
State Treasurer Overview:
Voters choose a Treasurer every 4 years.
• Manages Oregon tax money
• Helps earn Oregon money for government funds by investing it
• Runs the Oregon college savings (529) and ABLE Account programs
All Candidates for State Treasurer: *Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide
Michael P Marsh* - Constitution
Tobias Read - Democrat, Working Families
Chris Henry - Progressive, Pacific Green, Independent
Jeff Gudman - Republican Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 46 State Treasurer Tobias Read Democrat, Working Families www.tobiasread.com
City where I live: Portland Skills: State Treasurer, 2017-present; State Representative, 2007-2016; Oregon Innova- tion Council; Oregon Business Development Commission.
3 things I will do if I win: 1. Oregon’s $100 billion investment portfolio is among the best managed in the country. Treasurer Read has taken key decisions away from Wall Street, resulting in $500 million for state retirees.
2. Treasurer Read is helping Oregonians save for college. He has invested the first $25 in each college savings plan opened in a child’s first year.
3. Treasurer Read established OregonSaves, it has already helped 70,000 Oregonians to save over $65 million towards their retirement. 47 Candidates State Treasurer Chris Henry Progressive, Pacific Green, Independent chrishenryfortreasurer.org
City where I live: Oregon City Skills: I’m a Progressive because I want an economy that works for working people. I’m a Green because I want a fossil fuel-free economy that is sustainable. And, I’m an independent because I’m not beholden to corporate or monied interests.
3 things I will do if I win: 1. [Push for Campaign Finance Reform] I will advocate for the implementation of strict campaign finance limits and am limiting donations to my campaign to small donations of less than $500 per contribution.
2. [Form an Oregon State Bank] I will work in the interests of Main Street and The 99%, NOT on Wall Street and The 1%. I will diligently work to bring Oregon’s funding back to Oregon and invest in our communities through a public bank. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 48 State Treasurer
Chris Henry, continued
3. [Advocate for a Progressive Tax System] Oregon’s tax system is highly regressive. It should work for the average working person, like you and me. Rich corporations and the monied class need to pay their fair share. I will work to create a more progressive tax system.
State Treasurer Jeff Gudman Republican JeffGudman.org
City where I live: Lake Oswego Skills: BA Economics, MBA Wharton School Finance and Management. 40 years experience in the financial field as an analyst , controller, treasurer and investor. 8 years city council. Believe and act on the belief that a good deal is where everyone gets something, but no one gets everything.
3 things I will do if I win: 49 Candidates State Treasurer
Jeff Gudman, continued
1. As Treasurer of Oregon, I will not just count the money, I will make the money count.
2. Oregon requires a balanced budget. In the time of coronavirus, Oregon needs a experienced hand at the financial ship of state. Not someone using the position as a stepping stone to higher office.
3. The linkage between education for all Oregonians and the success of the state is clear and must be supported. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 50 Attorney General
Attorney General Overview:
Voters choose an Attorney General every 4 years.
• Oversees court cases when Oregon is involved
• Runs legal business of Oregon government
All Candidates for Attorney General: *Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide
Ellen Rosenblum* - Democrat, Independent, Working Families
Lars D H Hedbor* - Libertarian
Michael Cross - Republican 51 Candidates Attorney General Michael Cross Republican michaelcrossfororegon.com
City where I live: Turner
Skills: One skill I have is simply the fact that I know that our government and its institutions belong to all of us, not an elite political ruling class. I am a veteran who has aided in the apprehension of criminal suspects and was trained in leadership.
3 things I will do if I win:
1. I will stop officials from exceeding their constitutional authority and enforce laws requiring transparency. Each violation of this kind tears at the fabric of our freedom and our ability to prevent government officials from violating our rights.
2. The attorney general is sworn to protect all of the constitutional rights enjoyed by the people. The right to assemble, protest, worship and others Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 52 Attorney General
Michael Cross, continued
are key to our liberty and should never be unlawfully limited by public officials and institutions.
3. The attorney general is sworn to protect all of the constitutional rights enjoyed by the people. The right to assemble, protest, worship and others are key to our liberty and should never be unlawfully limited by public officials and institutions. 53 Candidates Judge of the Supreme Court
Judge of the Supreme Court Overview Voters choose a Judge of the Supreme Court every 6 years.
• Can rule when someone appeals a Court of Appeals decision
• Rules on death penalty cases
All Candidates for Judge of the Supreme Court: *Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide
Judge of the Supreme Court, Position 4 Christopher L Garrett* Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 54
Judge of the Court of Appeals
Judge of the Court of Appeals Overview Voters choose a Judge of the Court of Appeals every 6 years.
• Rules when someone appeals a Circuit Court decision
• Reviews administrative actions of Oregon agencies
All Candidates for Judge of the Court of Appeals: *Means that candidate did not submit a statement to DRO for the Easy Voting Guide
Judge of the Court of Appeals, Position 9 Jacqueline S Kamins* 55 Measures
Ballot measures
Measure 107
Title: Amends Constitution: Allows laws limiting political campaign contributions and expenditures, requiring disclosure of political campaign contributions and expenditures, and requiring political campaign advertisements to identify who paid for them.
What does this mean to me? Changes law to allow rules on how much money a person can give a candidate. Candidates would have to tell the public who gives money. Changes the law in three ways. 1. It would allow limits on how much money a person can give a candidate and on how much money a political campaign can spend. 2. Candidates would have to tell the public which people or businesses gave them money. 3. Political ads would have to say who paid for the ad.
How much it would cost: $0.
People for this say: We need to know who is giving money to candidates. People or businesses should not use Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 56 Measure 107, continued money to change an election. That gives some people more power than others. Oregonians should know who is trying to change how voters think. This will give voters more facts about money spent.
People against this say: This would stop people from sharing their opinion, and take away their right to free speech. People don’t want others to know their views. 57 Measures Measure 108
Title: Increases cigarette and cigar taxes. Establishes tax on e-cigarettes and nicotine vaping devices. Funds health programs.
What does this mean to me? Adds more taxes to packs of cigarettes and cigars. Adds a new tax to other products that deliver nicotine. Pays for more health programs.
How much it would cost: There would be no cost. The state would make $111 million by the end of 2021 and would make $331 million more by the end of 2023.
People for this say: This tax would make it expensive to start smoking. It would make money for healthcare and for preventing tobacco use.
People against this say: This tax would hurt poor people and small businesses. There are too many taxes already. Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 58 Measure 109
Title: Allows manufacture, delivery, administration of psilocybin at supervised, licensed facilities; imposes two-year development period.
What does this mean to me? Right now, it is a crime to make, sell, or have a drug that comes from a mushroom. This changes the law to allow people to take that drug. The drug affects a person’s mind or the way they act.
How much it would cost: $5.4 million to start the program.
People for this say: Some people who feel depressed may be helped by trying the drug. People could only use the drug by working with a therapist.
People against this say: We don’t know if the drug helps people or hurts people. The drug should be studied before lots of people can use it. 59 Measures Measure 110
Title: Provides statewide addiction/recovery services; marijuana taxes partially finance; reclassifies possession/penalties for specified drugs.
What does this mean to me? Helps people who have a disease that makes them need drugs get healthy again. People get in less trouble for illegal drugs and spend less time in prison.
How much it would cost: We don’t know exactly.
• Some places would get more money, like places that help people who use drugs be healthy again.
• Others would get less money, like schools, state police, and places that treat people who have a mental illness.
• Fewer people would go to prison, so the state would spend less money on prisons.
Continued on next page Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 60 Measure 110, continued
People for this say: People who have drug problems need more treatment. Keeping them in prison is expensive and does not help them. Sending people to prison costs a lot and does not help them be healthy.
People against this say: Some people with drug problems only get help because courts make them get help. We should be tough on drugs so courts can make people get treatment. 61 Sponsors:
Other sponsors include the Partnership in Community Living, the Oregon Resource Association and Oregon Support Services Association. The US Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living (ACL) supports this project through generous grant support. The contents do not necessarily represent the official views of ACL or any other funder.
Thank you:
Summer S. Davis, Office of the Secretary of State; Catherine McMullen and Tim Scott, Multnomah County Elections; Gabrielle Guedon, Oregon Self Advocacy Coalition; Ryley Newport, OCDD; Devra Polack, Spinster Design; Jeb Baldridge; Drew Treacy; Laurielle Aviles; Ivonne Saed, Saed Graphic; Jonathan Marrs, Atelier Pictures Easy Voting Guide | Disability Rights Oregon 62
You have the right to vote if you are a US citizen, live in Oregon, are 18 years old, and have registered. You have the right to vote if you are homeless. You have the right to vote if you have been convicted of a felony but have been released from custody, even if you are on probation or parole. You have the right to vote even if you have a guardian and even if you need help reading or filling out your ballot. You have the right to vote or cast your ballot if you are in line by 8 PM on Election Day. You have the right to know if you are registered to vote. You have the right to choose whether or not you want to register as a member of a political party. You have the right to use a signature stamp or other mark but first you have to fill out a form. No one can sign for you. You have the right to ask for help from elections staff or from a friend or family member. There are some people who cannot help you vote, for example, your boss or a union officer from your job. 63
You have the right to a secret vote. You do not have to tell anyone how you voted. You have the right to get a “provisional ballot,” even if you are told you are not registered to vote. You have the right to get a new ballot if you make a mistake. You have the right to vote for the person you want. You can write in someone else’s name if you don’t like the choices on your ballot. You have the right to vote “yes” or “no” on any issue on your ballot. You have the right to leave some choices blank on your ballot. The choices you do mark will still count. You have the right to use a voting system for all Federal Elections that makes it equally possible for people with disabilities to vote privately and independently. You have the right to know if your ballot, including a “provisional ballot,” was accepted for counting. You have the right to file a complaint if you think your voting rights have been denied.
(Oregon Constitution, Sections 2 and 3; ORS Chapters 137, 246, 247, and 254; Vote By Mail Manual; Help America Vote Act of 2002; OAR 165-001-0090 and 165-007-0030) What if I have a voting problem?
You can call the Disability Rights Oregon Voter Hotline at 888-339-VOTE (888-339-8683).
Disability Rights Oregon can help you with voting problems related to a disability.
We can:
• Get in touch with the Elections Office • Get answers to your voting questions • File a complaint
511 SW 10th Ave., #200 | Portland, OR 97205 www.droregon.org | 800-452-1694 or 503-243-2081