Regarding "Independents demand to be heard at
polls" (Feb. 19), hats off to Sen. Ben Westlund of Bend for his brave stand
against our two-party system, which is failing more than just the one-fourth
of Oregon's voters registered as independent.
Most politicians can't afford such a risky move where alternative views,
whether independent or affiliated with a third party, are relegated to
fringe-group status.
The most glaring insult is found in the winner-take-all allotment of
Oregon's electoral votes in presidential elections.
The effect trickles down to state-level politics, where most serious
politicians cannot risk standing outside of the norms of the two main
parties and hope to be elected. Oregonians should eliminate this scheme and
require that the votes be allocated along some approximation of the popular
vote.
BRAD HATHAWAY, Southeast Portland
Why would a conservative Republican support for governor newly independent
Ben Westlund? My answer is: We are first Oregonians, and in need of
thoughtful, less-doctrinaire leadership. I surrender my vote in a primary
election made wasteful by utter devotion to extreme partisan advantage.
If enough people join this effort, we can move the debate back to the
center, in search of real solutions. We may even find independent
legislative candidates in the November election.
Westlund's experience and background assure that he is qualified. His
political courage is clear in his decision to put progress ahead of politics
and assert his independence. Now, it's up to us.
Repeating the same tired party arguments and actions and expecting different
results is the recipe for failure. I'm ready to follow Westlund to real
change, because we love Oregon.
C.K. PATTERSON, Wilsonville
Oregonians are in for a real treat this election year. Anyone who has had
the opportunity to hear Ben Westlund speak knows how the passion in his
words can inspire.
Even with Westlund's background as a Republican, and my own personal history
of never having voted for a non-Democrat, I find myself excited over the
opportunity to vote for a person whom I believe actually means what he says.
Westlund's track record demonstrates that he is not interested in political
partisanship, nor political self-interest. He appears only interested in
what is best for Oregon -- all of Oregon.
For the state to advance beyond its current problems, it needs someone like
Westlund who can balance the state's needs -- such as supporting businesses
and the economy while simultaneously seeking a better health care delivery
system. Ben Westlund can provide the breath of fresh air this state's
leadership absolutely requires.
FRED STEELE, Sherwood
