Endorsing KC Hanson for Chair of the Democratic Party of Oregon

*I am endorsing KC (Carla Hanson) in her re-election as Democratic Party of Oregon Chair.* There is a lot to appreciate about her, including her accessibility and enthusiasm. The point I want to key in on is how she is helping to build a bigger party, particularly across the urban-rural divide. The place where our party can and must grow is in rural areas. KC has the connections and knowledge to help those counties that have room to grow.

Now that I again live in rural Oregon, I am closer to the challenges Democrats face here. It takes a lot to be brave enough to just say you are a Democrat. The Democrat brand is so affixed to urban values in people’s minds because… well the Oregon Democratic Party is dominated by urban voices. Our party can — and must, I believe — be a party for rural people to see themselves in. KC can help to make that growth happen.

All my Oregon Democrat friends who are going to SCC this weekend: I will miss you! Thank you for doing the work. Please keep us rural people in mind when you vote for state chair.