Campaign Conclusion

Today I am withdrawing from the runoff for Metro District 1.

I always knew that this would be a tough race. I had virtually no name familiarity in the district and I didn’t fit the typical profile of a Metro Councilor. Despite those disadvantages, I built a campaign that I am very proud of: we brought a wide array of people and interests together, earned Willamette Week’s endorsement, came in second in a four person field, and made the runoff. I raised more money, from more donors, than any other candidate. In the last week of the primary alone we had over 100 volunteers who knocked on over 4,000 doors. I offered a real contrast in terms of my record of results, economically focused priorities, and long history of community service and results. I was consistent in detailing my priorities and my positions on the issues, no matter who I talked to or what the setting.

Nonetheless, I came in second by a pretty big margin. Since then, I have examined the May 18 election data in great detail, and while I appreciate the opportunity to be in the runoff, I do not see a realistic or acceptable path to victory.

Past history in similar local elections suggests to me that being competitive in November would require a massive amount of money and a toxic negative campaign. Setting aside the money required (though that’s a huge challenge), I have no interest in running a desperate and personally negative campaign against a good person on issues that are not at the core of why I ran. So while there may indeed be a long-shot path to victory in theory, there isn’t one that works for me in reality. This campaign started with integrity, and that is how it will end.

This was a great experience and I sincerely appreciate the support that I did receive. I met the most amazing people in this election and I am very grateful for that experience. I am sorry that I was not able to deliver the victory that they deserved.

Finally, if anything, this election reinforced to me that there really is more commonality across this region than is assumed in some political and media circles (and I’m including the blogosphere here). The simplistic caricatures of communities, voters, candidates, and interest groups aren’t the reality. The Home Builders don’t want to pave paradise, and the Oregon League of Conservation Voters doesn’t want to eliminate the single family home. There is plenty of reasonable room to both disagree and to come to solutions, and there are lots and lots of great people who are ready to do the work together, if we can all get past the relatively small number of people railing at us from the extremes.

I remain committed to my community and will continue to try and improve it in other ways. I wish Councilor Craddick the best, and I believe she will make a positive difference for our communities as a Metro Councilor.

Posted June 11, 2010.