Cross-posted from Mike's campaign blog
Retired Congressman Mike Kopetski, the first Democrat to ever represent Oregon's 5th district in the US House, today became the second retired member of congress to endorse the candidacy of Mike Caudle. Caudle, who is challenging Oregon House Majority Leader Wayne Scott, has previously received the support of retired Rep. Les AuCoin as well as organized labor groups like SEIU and the Oregon Education Association.
Kopetski had a long career in Democratic politics spanning four decades during which he worked in numerous campaigns, served as an aide to the Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities from 1973 to 1974, served in the Oregon House and was eventually elected to two terms in the US House from a very competitive district now represented by Congresswoman Darlene Hooley.
In a statement released Monday, Congressman Kopetski said:
"In these challenging times, the citizens of District 39 deserve a Representative who reflects their personal values and understands their public policy concerns. Mike Caudle will be an effective voice for them in the legislature.
"In Mike, I see the aspiration to help people through policy-making that led me to become involved in politics. Like me, Mike caught the political bug while attending community college. Just as my work in the campaigns of Robert F. Kennedy and Wayne Morse in 1968 inspired me to dedicate myself to a life of service to the community, Mike's experiences at Clackamas Community College - serving as two-term student body president, national president of the American Student Association of Community Colleges and volunteer for Darlene Hooley's campaign - instilled in him a deep commitment and dedication to public service.
"Mike also has a vision for Oregon that will help our state thrive today and in the future. He has pledged to fight for working families in Oregon, ensuring access to quality, affordable healthcare. As State Representative, Mike will put Oregon's children first and make certain that there is sufficient education funding so that all kids get in a full school year. Mike will also work to change the tenor in Salem, trying to find common ground where possible.
"Mike faces an uphill climb this year as he goes up against a candidate with the support of many of the biggest special interests in Salem. But I am confident that through his determination to fight for the people of District 39 Mike will be able to send a message of change to Oregon regardless of the outcome on November 7. That is why I am happy to announce my endorsement for Mike Caudle for State Representative in House District 39 and hope you will join me in backing his campaign."
If you, too, want to show your support for Mike as he seeks to unseat Salem's chief obstructionist, House Majority Leader Wayne Scott,
endorse Mike's campaign,
sign up to volunteer and
make a contribution (even $5 makes a huge difference). For more information on Mike, the Democratic nominee in Oregon's House District 39, visit
MikeCaudle.com for his bio and a full list of issues and endorsements.