Despite the pullback of auto manufacturers producing electric vehicles; east coast wind projects face cancelation and delays due to a supply chain crunch and high interest rates; and with all the environmental trash that windmills and solar panels create, including fowl carnage, Oregon leadership keeps pushing electric energy while eliminating fossil fuels, which is needed to produce electricity.

Portland General Electric (PGE) has filed a general rate increase to electricity rates. PGE provides electric service to approximately 920,000 Oregon customers. The filing requests an increase of overall revenues by $202 million or approximately 7.4% for all customer types combined. If approved, residential single-family customers using an average of 886 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month would see a bill increase of $11.33 (7.2%). For a residential customer in a multi-family home using an average of 590 kWh per month, bills would increase by $8.23. Oregon’s bread and butter small businesses are scheduled for the largest increase of 9.4%, large commercial rate increase is 7.4% and industrial rate increase is 4.2%. Actual percentage increases will vary depending on customer type and usage.

PGE identifies several reasons driving the general rate case filing, including investments in local battery energy storage projects for enhanced reliability and resilience during peak demand, transmission, and distribution to allow dependable energy flow as demand grows, and upgrades to technology and generation facilities for increased resilience and long-term, dependable power.

PGE’s general rate case filing is undergoing a nearly year-long review and will be fully investigated on behalf of electricity customers by the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, and others. PUC is hosting a virtual event for the public to comment on Thursday, May 16, 2024, from 6-7 p.m.

PDT, provides the opportunity to speak directly to the commissioners about the proposed rate increase. Customers may also submit comments in writing or by phone through June 14, 2024. This public comment event is part of the investigation, which will conclude in December when the Commissioners rule on the request. The Commissioners may approve or modify PGE’s request and will only approve rate increases if fully justified by the company. New rates, if approved, are expected to go into effect January 1, 2025.

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Comment via Zoom or phone on Thursday, May 16 from 6-7 p.m. PDT. Access the Zoom link and phone-in details. Submit comments directly to the PUC by June 14, 2024 by using an online form and guidelines or email PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov. Mail comments to: Oregon Public Utility Commission, Attn: AHD – UE 435, PO Box 1088, Salem OR 97308-1088.

To stay informed throughout this case, individuals may request to be added to the distribution list to receive publicly available documents. Submit requests by email to puc.hearings@puc.oregon.gov or by calling 503-378-6678. Please specify Docket No. UE 435 in the request.

The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. Attempt is to use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law.


--Donna Bleiler

Post Date: 2024-05-15 20:30:12

Last Update: 2024-05-16 00:04:15

Oregon House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich (R-Hood River) disclosed that ballots are being held by the United States Postal Service (USPS) instead of being returned to county elections offices. USPS is an executive branch agency of the federal government overseen by a Democrat president.

The USPS told county elections officials Wednesday that the ballots were being held because the USPS wanted a firm count on how much to bill for each ballot since Oregon Democrats voted to use business mail to pay for returning ballots. Are they really saying they take this action for all business bulk mail? How many elections have we had pre-paid return envelops and this is a new development? The issue has affected numerous counties in Oregon, though, the full extent is still being determined.

Confusion over another Democrat-passed law – one to extend routine ballot acceptance beyond Election Day – is also contributing to the situation, according to internal election sources. As a result, potentially thousands of ballots have been held from election offices. County elections officials are seeking answers, and a call between them and the Secretary of State’s Office has been set for Thursday morning regarding this problem.

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“Voters deserve to have the utmost confidence in our elections, yet situations like this show how vulnerable our system is. Disruptions in the chain of custody – especially at this magnitude – are outrageous and unacceptable. This is the direct result of Democrat leaders meddling with election laws and failing to properly oversee ballot returns. Oregonians are entitled to immediate answers from their government about how this could happen and what is being done to protect the integrity of the election,” said Helfrich.

Some counties have a track-you-vote website that will verify receipt of your ballot. To avoid federal interference, place a stamp on your ballot. It not only bypasses those being help up, but it saves the state the postage charge.


--Donna Bleiler

Post Date: 2024-05-15 19:55:10

Last Update: 2024-05-15 20:30:12

In the realm of political discourse, the emergence of candidates like James Hieb and Todd Vaughn represents a pivotal moment for the Republican Party, particularly in Oregon. Their candidacies bring to light the essential role dissent plays within political parties, serving not only as a catalyst for change but also as a testament to the self-governing values that underpin our political system.

James Hieb and Todd Vaughn are "America First Conservatives." The "America First" Republicans, underscore a broader ideological battle within the Oregon GOP. Their platforms, centered on upholding the oaths to both the United States and Oregon Constitutions, prioritizing Oregonians' needs, and combating leftist infiltration in legislative politics, highlight the ideological divides within the party.

The differences between the establishment Republicans and the grassroots to most would be seemingly subtle, but it comes down to a candidate’s willingness to compromise values versus their loyalty to the purity of their political beliefs.

For instance, Hieb's opposition to Measure 110, his stance on repealing the Corporate Activity Tax, opposing tolling on freeways, retaining fossil fuel energy infrastructure, opposing the Green New Deal, support of the Second Amendment, and election integrity measures, all signify a clear demarcation from more moderate or establishment Republican viewpoints.

Former governor candidate Christine Drazan, who is a champion of the party establishment, is challenging State Representative James Hieb in the primary. Her critics characterize her as a "RINO" (Republican in Name Only) due to her support for policies viewed as left-leaning, including her voting in favor of the "Menstrual Dignity Act" and her backing of Black Lives Matter rhetoric, which further amplifies the debate on the direction of the Republican Party.

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Todd Vaughn's opposition to corruption, cronyism, and lies, alongside his dedication to private stewardship, responsible forestry, and the protection of our natural resources, positions him as a candidate deeply connected to the concerns of rural Oregonians. Another distinguishing characteristic of Vaughn’s grassroots politics is his advocacy for fiscal responsibility, limited government, and recognition of the rights of the individual.

Vaughn is challenging the appointed incumbent in Senate District 1, David Brock Smith. Smith is a career politician who has willingly accepted donations from a San Franciscan Democrat who allegedly has committed voter fraud in California and Oregon since 2012. He has attempted a cover-up on a bill he sponsored, HB3375, which facilitated and fast-tracked the state’s goal of having three gigawatts of wind energy produced off the coast of Oregon by 2030. Smith has tried to deceive the public of his real intentions and re-write his record by claiming he has always opposed these types of green energy schemes. He votes a third of the time with the Democrats destroying any illusion that he is a conservative Republican.

The party’s internal conflict is not merely a power struggle, but a reflection of the broader debate over what it means to be a Republican in today's political climate.

The significance of these primary races extends beyond the fate of two candidates, one who is being challenged by an establishment candidate and one who is challenging an establishment candidate. It is indicative of the ongoing struggle to define the core principles of the Republican Party. The rise of grassroots movements and "America First" conservatives like Hieb and Vaughn suggests a growing disillusionment with the party leadership and a desire for representatives who echo the base's call for candidates that exemplify foundational conservative values and an uncompromising stand against the leftist agenda.

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Encouraging open debate and discussion within the party is not just beneficial but necessary for its evolution and vitality. Dissent can lead to a reinvigorated party aligning more with its members' values and aspirations. It fosters a culture where diverse viewpoints are not only tolerated but should be embraced as a means of achieving a more robust and principled political entity.

Unfortunately, intimidation and retaliation are the recourse for anyone threatening or just questioning the authority of the establishment Republicans who are entrenched in the party’s leadership, which has divided the party into factions making it nearly impossible to work as a successful cohesive organization.

The GOP stands at a crossroads, with the outcome of races like those in Oregon serving as a barometer for the party's future direction. Will it choose to cling to the status quo, or will it seize the opportunity to redefine itself in a way that resonates with the broader conservative base?

History will show the odds are against party reformation, which could be the demise of its future. The establishment's incessant need for control will continue to alienate younger voters discouraging their participation leading to a destructive battle of attrition.

Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the role of dissent, as exemplified by the candidacies of James Hieb and Todd Vaughn, will be instrumental in shaping the party's path forward. It is a struggle for the soul of the GOP, particularly in states like Oregon, which is emblematic of the larger ideological battles shaping our country's future.

By navigating these internal divides combined with self-reflection, the Oregon Republican Party has the chance to emerge as a unified force, grounded in principle, yet open to the changes necessary to thrive in an ever-changing political landscape.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Rob Taylor has been an activist for over 30 years and was the Winner of the 2024 Don McIntire Award for Excellence in Grassroots Political Activism. His podcast is located at www.RobTaylorReport or on Rumble and YouTube.


--Rob Taylor

Post Date: 2024-05-15 14:59:37

Last Update: 2024-05-16 12:35:33

The Oregon Employment Department’s failure to implement Frances Online has meant Oregonians are without critical jobless benefits for weeks and sometimes months. Now a group of House and Senate Republicans has sent a letter to Governor Kotek urging her administration, in coordination with the Oregon Employment Department, to layout a detailed plan of action – beyond the normal increases to staffing – complete with aggressive increases in agency performance targets at set deadlines, as well as how the agency will achieve them.

“Oregonians pay into unemployment. These are their dollars, and it should be unacceptable to us that a state agency would even have a three-week target of delaying those dollars getting into the hands of those who need them, let alone the several months some are forced to wait,” said Representative Jami Cate (R-Lebanon).

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“As inflation continues to send prices soaring, struggling families on unemployment have been left in the lurch by their state government. This is unacceptable. The administration must correct these delays immediately so that people dependent on these resources to survive can get them,” said Representative Jeff Helfrich (R-Hood River).

The letter reads as follows:

Dear Governor Kotek,

In the digital age, government agencies have increasingly relied on online platforms to improve the efficient delivery of services to citizens, making the continued challenges of the Oregon Employment Department (OED) to implement Frances Online a source of stark frustration to Oregonians. Frances Online was billed as an opportunity to streamline unemployment claims, enhance user experience, reduce processing times, and minimize errors. The unfortunate reality is that the OED is continuing to fail our citizens when they need these funds the most.

To many of us in the Legislature, it seems as though state agencies continue to grow and multiply. Time and again, agency failures are met with increased budgets and additional FTE. While the expansion of government services can be necessary to meet peoples’ needs in times of crisis, the lack of identifying the catalysts for breakdowns in efficiency and instilling the accountability necessary to get agencies back on track, raises serious doubts about how citizens’ hard-earned dollars are being spent – as is the case with the Employment Department.

Oregonians deserve assurance that their contributions to a state-run program meant to sustain them during a period of job loss will do just that. But today, federal data shows nearly a third of unemployed residents are forced to wait at least three weeks to get their jobless benefits paid. This staggering figure indicates a steep decline in timely payments, which is a troubling downward trend that began a year ago. In extreme cases, our offices have heard from constituents that have waited several months since filing claims to receive payments.

The Oregon Employment Department's failure to process claims in a timely manner has profound and immediate impacts on the financial hardship of workers across the state as they face economic uncertainty due to periods of job loss. Even the OED’s stated goal of processing claims in three weeks puts citizens at an increased risk of utility shutoffs, food insecurity, and houselessness. With soaring inflation and housing costs, too many Oregonians are forced to live paycheck to paycheck and disrupting that tenuous balance by delaying their benefit claims by even three weeks can be too much for them to bear while supporting their families. We see this in our inboxes from constituents every single day.

These processing failures also extend beyond individual hardships. Public trust in our government institutions is essential for fostering cooperation and civic engagement. The failure to deliver on promises of an efficient service provision erodes this trust, casting doubt on the OED's competence and accountability. In a time of increasing state agency turmoil, it is critically important that OED, in coordination with the Governor’s office, face these issues head-on—taking fast and effective steps to correct them.

We implore you to prioritize restoring the public’s trust in the OED by publicly releasing a detailed plan of action—beyond the normal increases to staffing—complete with aggressive increases in agency performance targets at set deadlines, as well as how the agency will achieve them. The backlog of cases at the department must be cleared, and a better strategy for communicating with claimants implemented. Oregonians need to see a shift in ethos in our state agencies, with a restoration of putting customer service first from every level of leadership. Citizens need to see true transparency in delivering results of equitable access to unemployment benefits, and an upholding of the OED’s mandate of supporting Oregon’s workforce.

We appreciate your attention to this urgent matter of improving such a vital state agency and look forward to your response.

The letter was signed by the Republicans leaders of both the House and Senate.


--Ben Fisher

Post Date: 2024-05-14 20:39:41

Last Update: 2024-05-14 20:59:07

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek's approval rating is the lowest at 45% among governors. Is it deserved?

John Horvick, senior vice president at DHM Research, told Capital Chatter that” Generally speaking, governors in Oregon haven’t been popular for a long time. There’s no big shifts, I think, in public sentiment around the governor. Tina Kotek inherited the societal residue of her fellow progressive Democrat, Gov. Kate Brown." Kotek may have better priorities in homelessness and housing, behavioral health and addiction, and early childhood and education, but Horvick said of Kotek’s work, “people aren’t seeing that translated into material conditions in their lives or changes in homelessness or housing affordability.”

If Kotek really inherited Governor Brown’s unpopularity, how did she get elected? Kotek was Speaker of the House for nine years and shares in Brown's criticism for not having a clear vision or being a strong leader. Kotek's staff has viewed her as micromanaging, and is said to show no real interest outside her priorities. That is evident according to the way she runs the State Land Board as a dictator. Even though nearly 100% of testimony was against the State Forestry Board managing the Elliott Forest, the request for more time for consideration was willfully ignored.

Kotek attempted to create a job for her First Spouse in the Governor’s Office, and ignored all the signs of opposition, until her staff resignations brought media criticisms. By then her pullback was too late to prevent scrutiny.

It was under Kotek's leadership that legislature passed Motor Voter, officially making Oregon a sanctuary state. She over road voters giving illegals drivers license, striped law enforcement of funding and weapons to control riots, and continues to ignore slave camps.

Protests and riots aren’t new in Oregon. Governor Brown allowed a cop hating campaign develop into defunding, and told enforcement to stand down. What is Kotek doing? There is an increased move towards censoring against election misinformation and hate crimes when it goes against her policies. However, hate censorship at PSU and U of O is going unchecked. A recent poll shows that Portland area voters overwhelmingly disapprove of how local governments are tackling crime. Activity continues as late as Saturday with an attempt to occupy another building at PSU. At U of O, students are joining the big campout not even knowing what they are protesting.

Shemia Fagan’s resignation also exposed over 20 elected politicians who took money from La Mota. Kotek received $68,365 in 2020 according to Willamette Weekly. It also came out that La Mote owners allegedly owes government agencies and vendors millions that was ignored under Kotek’s watch. Kotek knew about Fagan, so why wouldn’t she know about La Mota’s connection to cartels?

Kotek is also responsible for former Secretary of State Fagan contracting with foreign run KNOWiNK. It cost nearly $10 million to connect all Oregon Election Tabulators to an Intranet server Microsoft Azure, which allows anyone with a password to connect to it and change the election data. Oregon's elections are not safe because of this vulnerability. Kotek had to know the Gartner Report found this system inadequate to operate for the 2024 election for her to authorize Fagan to sign the contract. Voters need to ask why $10 million is being spent on a system that blocks the constitutional option to vote in-person.

The Governor Brown appointed Supreme Court isn’t placating to Kotek and ordered Terri Lee Brown released after Kotek illegally imprisoned her by revoking her commuted sentence. Brown’s release was revoked even after she had already finished her sentence when Kotek took action. She completed a five-year sentence for two counts of mail theft, serving the last eight months under post-prison supervision. The Oregon Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Kotek’s actions were unlawful since Brown had completed her sentence.

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Kotek’s advisory council floated possible massive tax increases in order to move Kotek’s agenda forward. They want people to be able to afford homes, so they recommended increasing income taxes, increase property taxes, double fuel taxes, and levy a sales tax. But increasing taxes will also reduces spendable income for housing.

Kotek’s advisory council is a-typical of why Oregon governors have not been popular for a long time. In order for Kotek to keep pace and excel where others haven’t, she has taken the same course. Oregonians see government as growing out of proportion to what government is meant to do.

Inheriting poor government policies isn’t a good excuse for low approval if the same strategy is continued. Until a governor is willing to cut and consolidate government, Oregonians seem set to continue to have low governor approval.


--Donna Bleiler

Post Date: 2024-05-13 11:39:37

Last Update: 2024-05-13 23:43:57

In recognition of National Missing Children’s Day, May 25, 2024, the Oregon State Police Missing Children/Adults Clearinghouse is holding an event at the north end of Capitol Mall Park in Salem. Oregon State Police (OSP) representatives and partner agencies will be on hand with activities and giveaways to provide resources for parents, guardians, and caregivers. The event is from 11 AM to 2 PM at Center Street NE between Winter and Capitol Streets.

As of May 8, there remains 11 missing children in Oregon in 2024. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children lists 61 Oregon children still actively missing. It is often thought that abductions is a metro problem. However, only 4 of the 11 were in Portland.

The event will include informational booths from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Safe Oregon, OSP’s Missing Children/Adults Clearinghouse, and Marion County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue. Attendees can pick up free identification and DNA kits, visit with a police search and rescue K-9, and tour OSP’s new command vehicle.

Julie Willard, OSP’s Missing Children/Adults Clearinghouse coordinator, said, “National Missing Children’s Day is an opportunity to remember the thousands of children who go missing each year. We work to educate parents about how to keep their kids safe, and we teach children about the “4 Rules for Personal Safety” that they can learn about on Kid Smartz."

Kid Smartz is a child safety program that educates and empowers grades K-5 to practice safer behaviors. Please visit the Kid Smartz website for more information.

President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 25, 1983, the first National Missing Children’s Day in memory of Etan Patz, a 6-year-old boy who disappeared from a New York City street corner on May 25, 1979. Etan’s killer was convicted in February 2017, but the case remains active because his body has never been recovered. National Missing Children's Day is dedicated to encourage parents, guardians, caregivers, and others concerned with the well-being of children to make child safety a priority. The commemoration serves as a reminder to continue our efforts to reunite missing children with their families.

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AMBER Alerts is one way to get a rapid response. The AMBER Plan is a voluntary, cooperative partnership between law-enforcement agencies and broadcasters to send a rapid alert to the public when a child has been abducted and it is believed that the child's life is in grave danger. The program was created in 1996 in response to public outrage when 9-year-old Amber Hagerman was kidnapped and brutally murdered while riding her bicycle in Arlington, Texas.

AMBER stands for America’s Missing Broadcast Emergency Response. The AMBER Alert system has had a significant impact in recovering missing children. According to the statistics, as of December 31, 2023, 1,200 children were successfully recovered through the AMBER Alert system, and 180 children were rescued due to wireless emergency alerts. Additionally, a 2021 study found that Amber Alerts were often successful in familial abduction cases, but less effective in cases where a child was abducted by a stranger. OSP hopes awareness will help with prevention, and that’s the purpose of this event.


--Donna Bleiler

Post Date: 2024-05-09 22:14:44

Last Update: 2024-05-09 23:03:08

Oregon Republican candidate Monique DeSpain has been reported for criticizing Rep. Val Hoyle for stating the southern border must be open. DeSpain is running against Amy Ryan Courser and Jeff Kubler in the Republican Primary for the Fourth Congressional District. The winner will face Val Hoyle in the General Election. DeSpain is making public safety a top priority. She states, "No common sense person can deny we have a crisis at our borders that will not be controlled if we do not secure our border. Our open border is both a serious national security threat to our survival as a country and an intentional humanitarian crisis of profound suffering for hundreds of thousands."

She has garnered the support of key law enforcement endorsements, making her the only candidate in the race to receive endorsements from law enforcement officials.

“I am humbled by the outpouring of support from retired and current law enforcement from every corner of our District, representing 478 years of service,” said DeSpain.

“Public safety is the number one responsibility of our government. Today, too many career politicians have abandoned this sober responsibility in favor of radically transforming our criminal justice system to one where law enforcement is defunded, criminals are rewarded, and crime victims are left abused and forgotten. Citizens are seeing their neighborhoods overwhelmed by crime, homelessness, and drug trafficking,” added DeSpain. “Every day, we read headlines of record drug busts of enough fentanyl to kill millions right here in our 4th District. We hear of devastated families mourning personal loss. Their loss is one of the 100 thousand overdose deaths a year. We see homeless encampments consuming parks and neighborhoods right here in our district. And we hear reports that hundreds of known terrorists have entered our country”

“As a retired Air Force Colonel and lawyer, I know what fighting for our country and and our communities looks like. I'm running for Congress to reverse the policies damaging our communities and harming people, and to restore the livability we all deserve. I will be a Member of Congress who prioritizes public safety and fights crime, starting with a secure, controlled border. Our law enforcement and our communities in the 4th District need reinforcements in Washington, D.C.,” said DeSpain. “In Congress, I will ensure our law enforcement has the authority and resources they need to keep us safe.”

“Monique brings the passion, experience, and sensibility needed to solve complex challenges. I noticed that she asks the right questions, relentlessly pursues the answers, and brings a fresh perspective that is often sorely lacking in the halls of government,” said Representative Ed Diehl.

Crime Victims United President Steve Doell said, “Monique DeSpain is the kind of fighter for public safety, law enforcement, and crime victims that we need in Washington, D.C. With Monique serving the 4th District in Congress, we can turn the tide and restore the rule of law, bring back safe neighborhoods, and once again see crime victims protected as they deserve to be.”

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The following is a list of Monique DeSpain’s public safety endorsements:

• Doug Marteeny - Linn County District Attorney
• John Kilcullen - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Deputy, not Retired
• Mike Bedacht - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Detective, not Retired
• Ron Ridings - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant, not Retired
• Ben Sunderland - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Captain, Retired
• David Walp - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Deputy, Retired
• Larry Schrenk - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant, Retired
• Byron Trapp - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff, Retired
• Joni Mogstad - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant, Retired
• Todd Farmer - Lane County Sheriff’s Office Deputy, Retired
• Jerry Smith - Springfield Police Dept. Chief of Police, Retired
• Bill DeForest - Springfield Police Dept. Chief of Police, Retired
• Bruce Cummings - Springfield Police Dept., Retired
• Scott Thomas - Eugene Police Dept., Retired
• Sam Kamkar - Eugene Police Dept. Captain and Oregon State Police, Retired
• Bill Childers - Eugene Police Dept., Retired
• Gary Olson - Eugene Police Dept. Detective, Retired
• Mike Grover - Cottage Grove Police Dept., Retired
• Ken Matlack - Morrow County Sheriff, Retired

In addition, Monique has received letters of support from:

• Gabe Fabrizio - Coos County Sheriff
• John Ward - Curry County Sheriff
• Michelle Duncan - Linn County Sheriff

Monique DeSpain is a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, mother of twin boys, and public policy advocate who resides in Eugene, Oregon. She is a candidate for the Republican nomination for Oregon’s 4th Congressional District in a bid to unseat incumbent Congresswoman Val Hoyle in 2024 and bring about a safer, more prosperous Oregon. Go to her campaign website to see her full campaign.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2024-05-08 16:32:30

Last Update: 2024-05-08 17:14:42

State Representative E. Werner Reschke will appear before the House Committee on Conduct to defend himself for remarks he made during an interview with a Christian broadcaster. A conduct report, produced by an independent investigator outlines the facts upon which the complaint is based.

It is the policy of the Legislature to keep the name of the person making the complaint anonymous, and it is not known if the person making the complaint is an employee of the legislature. Freedom From Religion Foundation President Annie Laurie Gaylor has sent a letter to Representative Reschke asking that he apologize or resign.

At issue is remarks Reschke made to former Arkansas State Senator Jason Rapert who is host of Save The Nation with Jason Rapert

Jason Rapert: Tell people about why you think it’s important that Christians should be involved in government and voting and be a part of the authority in our country. What drew you as a Christian to do it and what would you tell those people that are listening today?

Rep. Reschke: What drew me to it was primarily looking at our history and the men and women who were part of that history in building this nation. Whether it’s George Washington, whether it was Madison, whether it was Abraham Lincoln, whether it was Ronald Reagan, who was the first president I got to vote for. I think, you know, you just go back through history and you look at men and the struggles

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that they faced and the faith that they had and those are the type of people that you want in government making tough decisions during tough times. You don’t want a materialist, you don’t want an atheist, you don’t want a Muslim, you don’t want, you want somebody who understands what truth is and understands the nature of man, the nature of government and the nature of God.

Jason Rapert: Yea

Rep. Reschke: If you don’t understand those things, you’re going to get things wrong and in Oregon that’s a classic example, we have a lot of people who are godless, unfortunately, leading the way and it’s the blind leading the blind.

Jason Rapert: Yea

The Committee will meet on Monday, May 13 at 13:30 PM. The meeting will be held virtually and will be open to the public on the OLIS website. Testimony will only be taken from invited persons.


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2024-05-07 13:27:08

Last Update: 2024-05-07 14:34:31

A week after Oregon's Governor Kotek joined 52 other Governors of states and territories sent the Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin III, strong opposition to a legislative proposal that disregarded gubernatorial authority over the National Guard, the Oregon National Guard held a pre-deployment Yellow Ribbon event. Approximately 2,000 Soldiers from the 41st Infantry Brigade, headquartered in Clackamas, are scheduled to deploy to Kosovo, Egypt; the Horn of Africa; and Syria starting summer through next spring.

The Governors objected to a one-time transfer of 14 National Guard units to the Space Force moving 1,000 Guardsmen from six states, excluding Oregon. The Governors said it is imperative they retain the authority and even proposed that states have their own military space forces, which Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall rejected and didn’t understand the fuse over a few hundred people in a handful of states. Two governors didn’t participate, Florida’s Ron DeSantis and Texas’ Greg Abbott.

"Oregon National Guard members proudly serve the communities they live in during state emergencies and also serve the nation in defense of our interests overseas," said Oregon Adjutant General, Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold at the Yellow Ribbon event. "That's what makes us the Service of Choice."

The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program connects National Guard members with resources throughout the deployment cycle through events for service members and their loved ones.

"Deployments are difficult for everyone, especially in the Guard since we don't have a base with all the resources and all our families in one place," said Col. Peter Helzer, commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team. He also noted the challenge of completing an intensive Joint Readiness Training Center rotation at Fort Polk, Louisiana, right before mobilizing. "That exercise will be key in ensuring we are ready for any challenge we may face while deployed."

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Oregon National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment scout sniper section in Ashland sent a three-member team to the Winston P. Wilson Small Arms Championship. Sgt. Trahern Fox, Sgt. Kevin Martin, and Spc. John Adamson were first-time competitors at the National Guard’s most prestigious and grueling rifle and pistol marksmanship event. Their fourth member had a family emergency that prevented the team’s chances at the championship, but the three Oregonians were undeterred in their goal of personal growth.

When finalized, their scores would memorialize new shooting milestones with rifles and pistols. But the trio’s greatest prize was incalculable – fortified skills to elevate their scout sniper section’s operational lethality.

While disappointed to lose their fourth shooter, the Oregonians focused on the invaluable skills they’d absorbed. The Marksmanship Training Center’s rifle and pistol experience will burn bright when passed from Camp Robinson’s ranges to their scout sniper section’s training.


--Dollie Banner

Post Date: 2024-05-07 10:56:18

Last Update: 2024-05-07 01:29:18

Vice-chairs of the Senate and House Committees on Housing Senator Dick Anderson (R-Lincoln City) and Representative Vikki Breese-Iverson (R-Prineville) attended a ceremonial signing for a bipartisan housing package which came out of the 2024 Legislative Session: SB 1530, SB 1537, SB 1564, and HB 4134. The bills aim to boost housing production, fund critical infrastructure in communities across the state, develop an innovative revolving loan fund, and address workforce housing levels. The signing took place at the site of the Native American Youth and Family Center in Portland.

“We know Oregon is grappling with a severe housing crisis that affects individuals, families, and entire communities across the state. Because of it, many of my constituents experience skyrocketing rents and an acute shortage of inexpensive housing options every day. We must quickly build out of this crisis by unleashing builders, land, and resources for infrastructure. I am pleased with the bipartisan package we were able to pass earlier this year to begin increasing housing production, but my hope is that it remains a top priority for the Legislature in sessions to come,” said Senator Anderson.

“Rural Oregon faces unique challenges such as limited job opportunities, outmigration of young residents, and insufficient housing options. We have to get serious about expanding housing production so these communities can attract and retain a workforce, stimulate economic growth by supporting local businesses and services, and ensure families and individuals have safe and inexpensive housing options close to their workplaces,” said Representative Breese-Iverson. “From this housing package, I will be glad to see dollars flow to rural Oregon so communities with aging and at-capacity infrastructure can allow for growth.”

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One of the key priorities for Senate Republicans is boosting housing production by embracing bold solutions rather than the failed policies that have handcuffed cities, overregulated builders, and stifled development for decades.

for some, this package is a case of a government created problem which begs a government solution. Celeste Walker of Grants Pass who provided testimony to the Senate Committee On Housing and Development said, "At the very least, [the bill summary] is referring to Oregon’s Climate Friendly Areas (also known as 15 minute cities) of which I am opposed to, as should everyone. SB 1530 allots $15 million to this project. This is a way to corral people into a very small area and thus eventually control every aspect of our lives. Look up the city of Grants Pass 71 page report on Climate Friendly Areas. Be wary when they say "We're from the government and we're here to help"! It’s a hard no!


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2024-05-06 19:14:12

Last Update: 2024-05-06 19:35:26

Sixteen Oregon Republican legislators and candidates visited Yuma, Arizona, at the border and meet with Arizona lawmakers in Phoenix. They were invited in response to lawmakers sending a letter to Texas Governor Abbott earlier this year supporting his stance against the Biden administration over Abbot closing the border. The letter led to connections in Arizona and the invitation. They participated in a tour of the border in Yuma led by Jonathan Lines, a Yuma County supervisor and former chairman of the Arizona Republican Party.

Hannah Howell, executive director of the House Democrats’ campaign arm, and Senate Democratic Leadership Fund, Oliver Muggli, coordinated their comments panning the visit as a campaign stunt. “Oregonians expect their elected officials to be focused on our people in our state, not playing MAGA politics a thousand miles away. This is a cheap election-year stunt that does nothing except show how deeply out-of-touch Republican politicians are with Oregon priorities.” They point to “rising prices and safety and homelessness”, of which all are directly related to the border crisis.

Representative Court Boice (R-Gold Beach) ties the border crisis with consequences to our quality of life in Oregon. “The cartels are in control of our borders, that’s a fact. Criminals, human trafficking, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, and please may we never forget the child trafficking. Not all, but many very bad people are invading from 157 countries – individuals with unhindered access to our country. The impact on our kids, our medical, our law enforcement, our education and our communities is staggering!”

In 2006, the Occupy Wall Street riots gave way to organized groups like Antifa, BLM, BAMN and sleep camps that Democrat leadership allowed, and even welcomed. In 2019, the Democrat legislature majority defied Oregon voters and gave illegals drivers license. Then in 2022 they passed SB 1510 stripping law enforcement of funds and weapons to control riots. That was after the Kerby, Oregon, slave camp was busted with 250 slaves forcing the legislature to acknowledge that Oregon has slave camps run by cartels. They were convinced to allocate $21 million that went towards busting eight slave camps in one county. Democrats show no interest in replenishing this fund to continue fighting cartels.

Governor Kate Brown took unvetted refugees from the Middle East, and many ended up in Sheridan state prison. Then she shut down two state prisons and released 1,000 more violent offenders on our streets.

Illegals have poured into the state through open borders exploiting them for fentanyl mules and sex trafficking and many are gathered into slave camps. Housing in motels was opened at taxpayer expense while Oregonians lost homes during the pandemic. In 2022, Democrats gave free medical care to anyone in the world coming to Oregon.

In 2023, former Secretary of State Shemia Fagan exposed La Mota's giving to 20 elected politicians and is still being researched as a cartel front. Senator Wyden gave Oregon Democrat Party FTX money that went unreported.

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Boice said he learned a great deal from this 2-day trip. "We saw more than substantial evidence that the Joe Biden 'Open Borders' is allowing the most pervasive and invasive criminals and cartels to enter our country and state unchallenged, which is accelerating the drug, human, sex and child trafficking problems. It’s heartbreaking. Certainly the trip was worthwhile in planning and preparing Oregon legislation and critical work toward security and enforcement for the 2025 Full Session."

Boice states, “There simply is no question that there are currently some very, very bad people coming here that hate us and want to do incredible harm to us and everything we love. The power and ruthlessness of the cartels cannot be overstated! It is absurd for all political parties not to come together at least on this!”

No one denies that Oregon has seen a crime explosion from open borders. The fact that law enforcement have to wear masks to protect their identity at the border or may end up dead or their families kidnapped and tortured should be a wakeup sign for Oregonians that leadership is putting us at risk with policies that give free access to Oregon benefits, and are doing very little to secure our safety.

Those visiting the border included: Sen. Tim Knopp, R-Bend, Sen. Fred Girod, R-Silverton, Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, R-Prineville, Sen. David Brock Smith, R-Port Orford, Sen. Kim Thatcher, R-Keizer, Rep. Greg Smith, R-Heppner, Rep. Court Boice, R-Gold Beach, Rep. Virgle Osborne, R-Roseburg, Rep. Boomer Wright, R-Coos Bay, Rep. Lucetta Elmer, R-McMinnville, Rep. Christine Goodwin, R-Canyonville, Rep. Dwayne Yunker, R-Grants Pass, Bruce Starr, Senate candidate from Dundee, Michael Summers, Senate candidate from Redmond, Keri Lopez, House candidate from Redmond.


--Donna Bleiler

Post Date: 2024-05-06 10:21:26

Last Update: 2024-05-06 17:27:53