November 05th, 2020

A letter from Linn County Democrats Chair Jerred Taylor

Nov. 4
​Well, it's the day after election day. Like most folks I've talked to since last night, the results of the election have personally been a mixed bag of emotions. I'm celebrating the election of  amazing statewide officials and ballot measures that will help many Oregonians while also grieving losses throughout Linn County. Some very bright spots are that Congressman Peter DeFazio and Representative Marty Wilde have fought off very well funded dark money campaigns, Marilyn Smith will be replacing the disgraceful Rich Kellum on the Albany City Council, and the Oregon Legislature now has the tools to finally set campaign finance limits with the passage of measure 107! There will be plenty of time to analyze the data and pivot to next steps, but for now let's take a moment to appreciate those who have sacrificed and fought for their communities.
Our full slate of candidates deserves our respect for well-run campaigns and for driving a positive, progressive vision on a local scale. Jim Hinsvark, Paige Hook, Miriam Cummins, Scott Bruslind, Amanda Dant, Keith Kolkow and Christan Stagg are all great leaders and they all have moved the needle in Linn County (and Benton and Marion as well). Please join me in giving them our thanks and appreciation for stepping up. 
Our volunteers and Precinct Committee Persons also have a lot to be proud of as well, including Democratic turnout over 80% in Linn County with some precincts over 90%! This would not have happened had it not been for all of your hard work! 
Now, there is still a lot of work to be done. We'll be spending some time debriefing the election at our central committee meeting tomorrow night, but mostly be preparing for what the future holds. We will also be discussing our next reorganization meeting, where our Precinct Committee Persons will have a chance to elect local party leaders. Please join us and help us continue to make a difference in Linn County.
In solidarity,
Jerred Taylor