Argus Observer - Calling for Change

News Article

By Larry Meyer

Malheur County was gubernatorial candidate Chris Dudley's last stop Thursday in his seven-day, 20-county campaign tour, and he met with a small gathering at the Holiday Inn in Ontario to spread his message that the state needs to go in a different direction.
"If you believe we need to go in a different direction, then let's go," Dudley, a Republican, said. "We must change our direction. Now is the time to step up."
Dudley said his No. 1 priority is jobs.
"We need more private sector jobs," he said. "We're in the midst of a 14-year losing streak."
The state needs jobs created by small businesses and entrepreneurs, he said, and that government creates the environment for job creation.
Dudley's No. 2 priority is the size of government or resetting the size of government. He later said he would work to establish a budget according to how much money the state has. His third priority is education, he said, noting that Oregon ranks 43rd in education reform.
Also important, he said, is restoring public trust in government.
"This is a big one," Dudley said. "So much of the state feels their voice isn't heard."
Dudley promised, if elected, he would visit all 36 counties every year.
"It's important to me to get around the state," he said, during the question and answer period.
Commenting that Oregon ranks 42 in employment, 43 in education and No. 1 in homelessness, Dudley asked, "Is this the best Oregon can do?"
Dudley's Democratic opponent is former Gov. John Kitzhaber.
"He set the table we are now eating off of," Dudley said. In answer to a question about supporters, Dudley pointed out he has bipartisan support in the business community.
While the state can't go backward in spending, Dudley said it can't go forward as fast as it has been. His budget priorities are public safety, education and roads.
"We can't afford energy tax credits," he said.
Dudley said he has a 26-point plan to reform the budget, an 18-point plan for education and a 20-point plan for job creation... [conclusion of article not available]

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