I have generally been disgusted with the outcome of the initiative process in the US, particularly when it comes to tax measures. A new
poll by Davis, Hibbitts, and Midghall for the Oregonian and KATU shows that, at least this year, Oregon voters may be wising up.
The poll (of 600 likely voters) gives generally good news all around. In the governors race, Kulongoski is leading Saxton 45 to 38, which is consistent with other polls that have been coming out. More interesting are the results on some of the critical ballot measures. In particular, Measure 43 which requires parental notification 48 hours before a minor can receive an abortion is failing, 42 to 48 (43-50 with leaners). Measure 48, the Tax Payer Bill of Goods is failing more dramatically, 21-54 (24-57 with leaners).
Oregon was one of the earliest states to adopt the initiative process, as a way to get around control of the legislature by the timber companies. Unfortunately, our long history has not always caused us to act wisely, particularly where taxes are concerned (see property tax limitation, an end to land use planning, etc). To be fair, Oregonians really don't have a bad record on social measures (we have defeated a number of anti-gay rights measures, as well as passing the Death with Dignity act). On fiscal measures, however, I have come to expect Oregonians to pass just about anything that is anti-tax. Fortunately, it seems that years of budget crisis have finally made people wise up, at least at this. I hope other states will follow our lead, and not Colorado's.