Cross-posted from my campaign blog
I was reading the blogs this weekend when I came across the following graphic showing the net change in median income in each state over the past six years (from the Detroit Free Press via The Washington Monthly):
As you can see, Oregon has seen the fourth largest decrease in median incomes in the entire country over the last six years. This is a disappointing statistic because it indicates that even though there has been positive job growth in the state in recent months, many are still underemployed or employed in positions that pay less than they were just a few years ago. To make matters worse, Intel today announced it would be cutting 1,700 jobs in Oregon alone.
Now my opponent, House Majority Leader Wayne Scott,
claims to have "Passed legislation to encourage job creation and investment in Oregon." This is certainly a noble goal, and I applaud him for it. But Rep. Scott's record speaks louder than his words. As the graph above shows, Oregonian families are getting paid less than they were six years ago despite actions Rep. Scott has claimed to have taken during his two terms in the legislature -- most of which as one of the most powerful leaders in the state.
If we want to foster a business environment that can provide not only new jobs but well-paying new jobs, we need a new direction in the state legislature. I believe we must increase short-term training and technical career education opportunities so that workers today can be fully prepared for the jobs of tomorrow. Instead of continually cutting education, we need to provide ample funding to our education system in general -- K-12, community colleges and our universities -- which will also help bring new companies and industries to our state (particularly within the technology sector). As state Representative, I will also fight for tax incentives to help put Oregon on the cutting edge of the renewable energy industry, proving jobs through the development of ethanol and biodiesel, as well as wind and wave power. But I will also work to ensure that the unions in this state are not undermined by unfair legislation because people in trades like electrical work and metalworking should not be constantly undercut. Finally, I will strive to provide funding to the Oregon State Police instead of cutting much-needed positions, as Rep. Scott has done in the past.
We can help create not only more jobs but more well-paying jobs in Oregon. But it will take new leadership that is willing to go above the normal political games in Salem and actually work for the people of Oregon. So I need your help today so we can send that message of change to Salem and all of Oregon.
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Mike Caudle is the Democratic nominee for the Oregon House of Representatives from the 39th district, which encompasses Oregon City, Canby and surrounding Clackamas County. To learn more about Mike, visit mikecaudle.com, Mike's campaign blog, Mike's Facebook group or Mike's ActBlue page.