Vicki Walker, in her own words
A couple weeks ago, I told you why I support Vicki Walker for Secretary of State. Well, what the heck do I know? Here’s Vicki giving you a few reasons in her own words.
And yes, backing a specific candidate is outside the ordinary for this blog; but in Vicki’s case, her focus on transparent government is so closely aligned with the goals of this blog, that an exception seems well justified.
UPDATE: Here’s her latest radio ad, too.
Our new mind 
May 8, 2008 at 1:58 pm
You realize that throwing money at minorities to get them to vote won’t do anything? I get mad about these things because Portland still has a long way to go in dealing with racism and classism.
May 8, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Hi Meep, I think you’re responding to what she says about 10-11 minutes into the video. I agree that what Vicki said there doesn’t really outline a specific plan for spending money in an effective way, but I also am confident that Vicki is committed to increasing voter registration and turnout, and also to spending resources wisely. If her statement seemed simplistic, my first thought would be that it results from the challenge of distilling complex ideas into a few words. I’d encourage you to give her the benefit of the doubt, or when she wins, to contact her with any concerns you have about her plan.
Also, the funding she’s talking about is Federal “Help America Vote” money — my understanding is that it’s something available to Oregon if we come up with a plan for it. The decision to spend the money — which seems to be your concern — has already been made, I think. It’s up to Oregon to decide how to best spend its share — I think that’s what Vicki is speaking to.
Obviously, I am not as well educated in this area as I could be — but I think there’s a lot of opportunity to get good ideas heard and acted upon. If you want to pursue that, let me know, and I’d love to help.
May 15, 2008 at 10:37 am
I know one thing that always helps is education, and I think the whole OpenGovernment thing is a step in the right direction. Teaching people how to find out more about candidates and setting up a good infrastructure for that (hehe, a wiki) is probably the best use of money, as I don’t think mass media is on our side. I can’t think of too much more off the top of my head, but I’m sure my grandma would give me her two cents.
May 17, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Here’s her latest radio ad, too.