Confusion has been growing this year among Oregon Republicans, complicated by a lack of strong candidates.  But one Republican Congressional candidate is following his conscience, to the consternation of his party's leaders.

You have probably read by now about Senator Gordon Smith (R-Oregon) trying to sidle towards the Democrats in his race against Democrat Jeff Merkley.  Smith will not attend the Republican Convention, and cites his cooperative relationships with Barack Obama and John Kerry, both of whom endorse Merkley.  (mcjoan article)