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I'm Jeff Merkley..running for U.S. Senate for Oregon

by: Jeff Merkley

Wed Apr 16, 2008 at 15:03:05 PM EDT


( - promoted by sarahlane)

I'm Jeff Merkley. I'm running for the U.S. Senate for Oregon.

This is my first diary at EENR and I'm looking forward to finding out more about how we can work together.  

First let me say, I really like the John Edwards quote in the upper left corner of the blog: "We must end the game controlled by a privileged few and restore the promise that America owes to us all."  As some of you may know, I was the co-chair of the Edwards campaign here in Oregon.  I very much identify with Senator Edwards upbringing and his passionate fight for progressive causes.

Sarah Lane generously provided information on my background and some of the issues in her announcement yesterday. Thank you, Sarah. For those that want to know more about the campaign after this blogging session, please stop by my campaign website.  

So, what's on your mind?
Jeff Merkley :: I'm Jeff Merkley..running for U.S. Senate for Oregon
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I'm Jeff Merkley..running for U.S. Senate for Oregon | 121 comments
Last night in the debate you spoke about (3.00 / 15)
how the U.S. government needs to stand up for the Tibetan people, can you talk a little about how you feel about the recent clashes?

Thanks for coming by!  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley

Supporting the people of Tibet (3.00 / 15)
Years ago, I passed a resolution supporting freedom for East Timor at a time when so many never thought Indonesia would ever provide an opportunity for the Timorese to be independent.  

We have a similar afflicted people in Tibet.  It is incumbent on the international community to do all they can to stand with the people of Tibet for their independence and freedom.

The current protests are a call to help at a time when other nations do have some leverage.  We should certainly be looking for national leaders to use some of that leverage to help alleviate the oppression of the Tibetan people.

[ Parent ]
Thanks for answering my question... (3.00 / 14)
It's nice to hear your views on the matter. Our government could be doing so much more to aid their independence. We need more voices like yours in the Senate.

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Hi Mr. Speaker! (3.00 / 14)
Gordon Smith attacked you for advocating that we shouldn't spend over 100 billion dollars to buy the needless B-2 bomber after the fall of the Soviet Union in a NYT OP-ED.  Do you see other areas of the Defense Department today that need to be reformed to prevent that kind of wasteful spending on excessive militarization?
End waste now (3.00 / 17)
There is a complete breakdown in fiscal oversight in the DOD.  Our government has been issuing single source contracts to groups like Halliburton and doing far too little to make sure the funds are spent effectively.

Where is the Truman Cmte when you need them? We need strong oversight of the defense industry.

[ Parent ]
Welcome to EENR! (3.00 / 15)
and thanks for spending time with us today.  I understand you might be a bit under the weather, so I hope you're in a comfy place and get some rest soon.

First question ;-D

What is your position on lobbyists' money in campaigns?  What do you think can be done to return the political process to the people?

Thanks!

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. MLK Jr  

Dont want to answer for the Speaker (3.00 / 15)
But i was an intern for a State Rep. during the 2007 legislative session for one of the freshmen Democrats and Speaker Merkley and the Dems passed comprehensive limits on gifts from lobbyists, it was hilarious because the lobbyists didn't know what to do when all the legislators kept giving all their crap back to them.
[ Parent ]
Thanks for hosting me here! (3.00 / 16)
I love the Bono video!

His championship against poverty and taking on malaria and AIDS has been enormously effective. If only every famous musician had Bono's heart to fight for ordinary people.

pioneer is the one who's been finding these (3.00 / 14)
great videos for the vid-wall.  And yes, those with the world platform can and some do use it for the best purposes.  Like George Clooney and Don Cheadle and Mia Farrow about Darfur.

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. MLK Jr  
[ Parent ]
Welcome to EENR, Jeff. (3.00 / 15)
Many thanks for being here for question and answer.  Many more thanks for taking a progressive stand in your run to the Senate.  We will never have too many fine progressives in our Congress.

Peace.

Jerry Northington for Congress, DE-AL.

So true, possum, though we can all work to (3.00 / 14)
have people like you elected!  More and BETTER Democrats is my motto this year!

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. MLK Jr  
[ Parent ]
More and better and we will have a real nation (3.00 / 14)
for a change.  If we all work hard enough and stand together we will win this year.

Thanks for the support, edgery.

Peace.

Jerry Northington for Congress, DE-AL.

[ Parent ]
Progressives in the U.S. Senate? (3.00 / 19)
Unfortunately we have far too few progressives in the U.S. Senate.  Sherrod Brown and Barbara Boxer need reinforcements!

We need more senators who will fight on the issues families face around the kitchen table every day: living wage jobs, health care and quality education.

[ Parent ]
Yes, we certainly do! (3.00 / 15)
And they SO need reinforcements!
[ Parent ]
RIght you are. (3.00 / 14)
More Senators fighting for and representing the people would be one fine start.  Thanks for fighting the good fight.

Peace.

Jerry Northington for Congress, DE-AL.

[ Parent ]
Amen to that (3.00 / 15)
as a Californian, when people talk about the first woman President, I have to admit, Boxer comes to mind for me :)

Mr. Ellinorianne for CA State Senate! (Gary Pritchard ActBlue CA-SD-33)
[ Parent ]
Me too. (3.00 / 12)
She'd be awesome!
[ Parent ]
Oh yes, reinforcements are sorely needed (3.00 / 1)

[ Parent ]
Regarding torture and human rights (3.00 / 14)
This is something of a follow up to Sarah's question - given the fact that ABC News just confirmed that the use of torture was discussed- and approved - at the highest levels of our government, how do we discuss human rights with the world community moving forward?

And, what steps would you take in the US Senate to restore our reputation in the area of human rights?

Thank you so much for joining us today.

Apparently we're thinking about the same things grannyhelen (3.00 / 14)
I just asked a question about the govt. approval of torture and whether the Speaker believes we should hold investigations into such matters.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Yes - this is the hot topic among progressives right (3.00 / 13)
now - one cannot focus too much on human rights :-)
[ Parent ]
LOL. (3.00 / 13)
I think several of us had more or less the same thing on our minds.
[ Parent ]
Human rights (3.00 / 18)
Our only hope now is to start over with a new administration.

We need a U.S. Senate and a Congress and a President who will take a firm stand against the use of torture. We need to end extraordinary renditions and secret prisons. We need to restore our participation in the Geneva Conventions. Unless we take these kinds of actions, we have no standing in the world to discuss issues of human rights.

The irony is that these strategies sold by the Bush Administration in the name of security, actually make us far less secure.

[ Parent ]
Excellent - thank you. (3.00 / 12)
And I agree - to borrow a Bushism, the world needs to see that we've "turned the corner" on this issue.

Kudos for being a pretty fast and prolific blogger as well :-)

[ Parent ]
Hi Jeff, thanks for coming by. (3.00 / 14)
To kind of piggyback off Sarah's question, over the past few days and weeks we have seen a growing concern on this blog about human rights violations and violence both in the U.S. and abroad.

At the same time, many of us have been listening intently to the Dalai Lama's message of compassion that he has been spreading here in the U.S. recently.

So, my questions are:

How do we get the U.S. off of its addiction to violence, stand up for human rights, stop torture?

How can we encourage moving toward a nonviolent society?

And would you consider supporting Dennis Kucinich's idea of a department of peace?

See my remarks above (3.00 / 17)
We have to lead by setting the example.  It is clear that this administration is hopelessly unable to set an example on issues of human rights.

I was appalled that the U.S. Senate confirmed Michael Mukasey without getting from him a clear statement that waterboarding is torture.  One only has to look at the Uniform Code of Military Conduct to see that waterboarding is defined as torture.

[ Parent ]
It's been defined as torture (3.00 / 13)
for generations. I can't believe the Senate confirmed Mukasey either, that was surely a low point in American history.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Thank you. (3.00 / 8)
Yes, I think several others posted similar questions while I was composing mine. Thanks for your answers.
[ Parent ]
If you had been in Senate at any time during the last (3.00 / 14)
7 hellish years, would you have called for or joined Kucinich's call for impeachment?

Would you have voted yes or no on war funding after it was obvious that there was large amounts of corruption in the funding of the Iraqi War?

Would you have called more attention to torture, FISA, wiretapping etc through having news conferences, making speeches on the floor, letters to the editor etc?

In other words, what would YOU have done to shine the light on Bush's corruption and abuse of power?

Shine the light (3.00 / 18)
Absolutely I would have shined the light on Bush's corruption and abuse of power.

I've repeatedly taken stands against torture and warrantless wiretapping and would love to have the ability to make those arguments with the force that comes from being a U.S. Senator.  

In regard to impeachment, I've called for vigorous investigations and to follow the facts wherever they go and that impeachment should NEVER be off the table.

My concern, is that if this administration isn't thoroughly investigated and held accountable, then future administrations will have a green light for all kinds of misconduct.

While I'm at it, let me mention that we need to crack down on the use of signing statements and fight back against the Bush/Cheney plan to expand the power of the Executive at the expense of Congress and the Courts.

[ Parent ]
Thank you! (3.00 / 13)
The rule of law has to be honored by Congress. I appreciate you taking the moral and just stand on these issues. Here's a comment you made that I believe is worth repeating:

I've repeatedly taken stands against torture and warrantless wiretapping and would love to have the ability to make those arguments with the force that comes from being a U.S. Senator.  

In regard to impeachment, I've called for vigorous investigations and to follow the facts wherever they go and that impeachment should NEVER be off the table.



Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Well if I was in OR you would have my vote now. (3.00 / 8)
but I am in AZ...

Yup good ole McCain is from here, sorry everyone.

I hate to say it though, reading comments from the local paper I see how he keeps getting reelected.

[ Parent ]
I'm voting for Merkley on May 20th! (3.00 / 7)
I'll think about you when I cast my ballot ;)

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Welcome Speaker Merkley! (3.00 / 14)
I think it's really cool that you're here.  

I live in Washington state, and I still can't figure out  why three Democratic Senators from the Northwest (one of them, Senator Wyden, is pretty much a hero to many of us) voted for CAFTA.

Why do you think they voted for it?

It's great to see strong Democrats like yourself representing the Northwest.  Good luck!

CAFTA (3.00 / 16)
Its a mystery to me.  Here's the thing, if we have trade agreements without strong environmental and labor protocols then nothing will be built in the United States.

If nothing is built in the United States there will not be a middle class in the United States.

We need to keep in mind that the loss of high quality jobs is assaulting the middle class. We are drifting away from the model of a society that paves roads for all of it's families to thrive.

We must reverse that.

[ Parent ]
And we will have-once again-aided abuses of (3.00 / 11)
human rights.

Forgive me for adding to your statement (no need for you to respond) but too many times elected officials fail to see the connections between our foreign policy, our economic policy, our trade policy and the affect these have on human rights across the planet (including the right to live in a town where you can safely breathe the air and drink the water).

You just strike me as a politician who sees the inter-connectedness of these issues, which is a good thing.

[ Parent ]
That's a profoundly important point (3.00 / 6)
Thanks for making it!
[ Parent ]
One more question... (3.00 / 15)
in last night's debate you also spoke a lot about holding war profiteers accountable. I really appreciate your stance on the matter and I don't believe enough politicians are addressing the cronyism in the Defense Dept.

Another matter that really concerns me is whether the highest levels of government officials approved the use of torture on detainees. Do you believe Congress should hold investigations and get to the bottom of this matter?

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley

Hold investigations? (3.00 / 17)
Absolutely.
[ Parent ]
Yes! (3.00 / 11)
Hey fellow bloggers, this is what I'm looking for in a Democratic Senator!

Speaking just for myself and not on behalf of the EENR bloggers, I support Merkley. I have set up an Act Blue Page for his campaign. If any of you feel compelled to donate, go here.

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley

[ Parent ]
Committee Appointments (3.00 / 16)
I realize this isn't necessarily up to you as a Freshman Member of Congress, but what committee(s) would  you like to serve on if you are elected to the US Senate? Why?
Committees (3.00 / 18)
Energy and Natural Resources because energy is at the heart of our economy, our environmental issues, and our national security.

Appropriations because it would form a powerful team for Oregon to have Wyden on Finance and to have our other Senator on Appropriations.

Health, Education and Labor because health issues are the top issue creating stress for our families; because we must build an education system appropriate to a knowledge economy; and because restoring jobs and fair working conditions is essential to the strength of American families.

[ Parent ]
Health care question. (3.00 / 13)
I also have to ask whether you are in favor of universal health care and if so, how would you like to see it accomplished?
Merkley is in favor of UHC (3.00 / 13)
but I'll let him answer how he plans to accomplish that goal. ;)

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
UHC (3.00 / 15)
It is way past time to fulfill Truman's vision of a health care system that serves every man, woman and child.

As the husband of a nurse, I'll be taking many of my health care ideas from those who work on the front line, unlike Senator Smith who has pandered to big drug and insurance companies.

One of the first things I'll do is to sign on to Senator Wyden's Healthy Americans Act so that every American will have a health care plan that is portable and equal to that which members of Congress have today.

But we must go beyond that. We need to tackle the inefficiencies in our health care system.  We need to break the monopoly on the price of drugs set under Medicare Part D. We need to strengthen our clinics, which provide a cost effective gateway to the health care system for millions. We need to emphasize prevention and disease management, too.

[ Parent ]
That is a fantastic start, Sir. (3.00 / 12)
I believe if we can push Senator Wyden's AA through, then the next steps to true Universal Healthcare will not be far behind.

And it cannot be too soon for ALL of us, even those that just don't understand the reasoning and are fighting against it.

I have been thinking that I would make a proposition to my Republican friends... that if they will stop telling lies about the Democrats, we will stop telling the truth about them.
Adlai Stevenson

[ Parent ]
Thanks so much. (3.00 / 11)
I have to say this is probably the issue that worries me the most personally. Of course we all have been sick and know people who have had serious illnesses and it's just becoming more and more scary, because you just never know anymore if you will be able to get health care without losing your insurance, if you even have insurance in the first place.
[ Parent ]
It's the issue that worries me the most too (3.00 / 10)
If we pick up enough seats in the Senate and House and get a Dem POTUS elected, our party has no excuse to not push UHC through with everything they've got.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Being under-insured is also a major problem (3.00 / 9)
for many.  I know that I personally had an issue recently that I've not taken care of completely because I simply cannot continue to pay MY part of what the insurance doesn't cover.  Many are in much less of a position than I, and I truly feel for them.

I have been thinking that I would make a proposition to my Republican friends... that if they will stop telling lies about the Democrats, we will stop telling the truth about them.
Adlai Stevenson

[ Parent ]
To add to that for people with pre-existing (3.00 / 8)
conditions..me that are uninsureable. You can buy insureance but you have very high cost and the kicker is they don't cover any thing you have.
[ Parent ]
Preexisting conditions (3.00 / 12)
One thing that as valuable in Senator Wyden's plan is that no one can be turned away for preexisting conditions!
[ Parent ]
Thank you as I have had cancer twice (3.00 / 9)
this is a major issue for me.
[ Parent ]
The key word being "had" (3.00 / 4)
How did I not know that you battled the disease twice? I'm so glad that you beat it Valsagem!

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Wonderful answer, thank you (3.00 / 2)

[ Parent ]
Welcome Jeff! (3.00 / 15)
This is someone from the State just below you :)  My husband is running for State Senate (In the beginning, just to get a Dem on the ballot but now that his belly is full of fire, he's wanting to win, sadly we live in a very red district and have 520,000 registered voters, 27% Dems and 50% Republicans, no joke).

I am going to be selfish and ask about some regional issues affecting both our States.  Just this week California and Oregon have banned Salmon fishing off the costs of both States due to the declining numbers of chinook salmon in the region.  Over fishing is a world wide problem and with food prices skyrocketing we could be headed for a very dire situation.  Any thoughts on the ban on salmon fishing and the worldwide increase (the biggest in 17 years) in staple foods that many rely on for survival?

The second issue is the Natural-gas pipeline that is going to cut through Oregon...

A new natural-gas pipeline has been proposed that would extend 210 miles through the northwest corner of the state -including cutting 73 miles through public forests and crossing fifty streams and rivers.

http://www.blueoregon.com/2008...

What is your position on this proposed pipeline and do you support alternative energy sources for your State and the Country?

Thanks for your time!  I hope you are feeling better soon :)

Mr. Ellinorianne for CA State Senate! (Gary Pritchard ActBlue CA-SD-33)

Salmon and LNG (3.00 / 16)
Big topics....

In regard to salmon we need to address their success over the vast breadth of their geographic life cycle.  Ocean fisheries management is a key piece of that but so are many factors associated with their trips to and from spawning grounds.

I have publicly opposed the LNG facilities in Oregon.

[ Parent ]
I like this quote... (3.00 / 13)
From a Daily Astorian story about the Anti-LNG rally last year.

"Does this project do damage to Coos Bay if there is a natural tsunami?" Merkley asked, drawing a roaring "Yes!" from the crowd. "Does it damage the Columbia shipping channel? Isn't this just one big floating bomb?"

[ Parent ]
Sounds very much like the one that's (3.00 / 10)
being proposed here off the southern CT coast in Long Island Sound (named "Broadwater" - a name waiting for a natural disaster).

We've had a lot of success fending it off so far.

[ Parent ]
Hello, Speaker Merkley (3.00 / 14)
Its a pleasure to have you here.

I would like to know what you think about having Troops for Hire such as companies like Blackwater sending hired  security personel overseas?  Do you think this is a good idea, or do you feel that the US Armed forces should be taking on this responsibility?

Thank you.

I have been thinking that I would make a proposition to my Republican friends... that if they will stop telling lies about the Democrats, we will stop telling the truth about them.
Adlai Stevenson

Its a terrible idea. (3.00 / 13)
The growing use of mercenaries is a huge mistake for this nation.
[ Parent ]
Agreed, on the use of the term mercanary as well (3.00 / 9)
as your reasoning.

I have been thinking that I would make a proposition to my Republican friends... that if they will stop telling lies about the Democrats, we will stop telling the truth about them.
Adlai Stevenson

[ Parent ]
Virginia Tech (3.00 / 13)
As you may know, today is the one year anniversary of the horrible shootings at Virginia Tech. That tragedy has resulted in a significant amount of discussion regarding mental health issues, gun control issues, etc.

I was wondering you'd like to say anything about the anniversary of the tragedy and what your thoughts are on the issues that were brought up by the event. Feel free to be as general or specific as you'd like.

I just want to chime in and send my well wishes to the families who lost (3.00 / 11)
loved ones. Hope they're getting through today okay.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Terrible tragedy (3.00 / 11)
My heart goes out to all of those families who lost loved ones.  We have to work to build a society where all families can thrive and we need to do a vastly better job addressing mental illness in our society.
[ Parent ]
What is your position on free trade with Colombia (3.00 / 13)
and the fact that they have murdered many union organizers.  I really don't understand why anyone is contemplating going ahead with an agreement like it seems that Pelosi and Reid are signaling.  
I do know that Merkley spoke out against (2.80 / 10)
the Peru trade deal and is a proponent of fair trade. I haven't heard anything about his stance on the Columbia deal yet.

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Jeff is opposed... (3.00 / 11)
...to the free trade deal with Colombia.

He's very strong on fair trade, incidentally. Its one of his signature issues.

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon

[ Parent ]
Thanks for answering that question (3.00 / 7)
I hadn't seen anything about his position on that yet so it's good to hear he's opposed to the deal.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
does this help? (3.00 / 6)

The negotiating team for the Colombia trade deal.

[ Parent ]
OMG! (3.00 / 4)


Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Your plans for aming this country for supportive of families (3.00 / 11)
I write a blog here in Portland, OR called Activistas (www.activistas.us), and our purpose is to improve public policies that affect families.  We're interested in seeing:

- Strong support for breastfeeding in the workplace,
- More flexible work options with benefits,
- Unhinging health care from employment so we can choose to work fewer hours and be with our families more without sacrificing our acces to health care.  
- Affordable child care and pre-K,
- Paid family leave that actually benefits working parents.  

Among other things!!  You get the picture.  Our sense is that the system is defining our parenting, and we want to be in the driver's seat, you know? What are you plans to accompish these things from the US Senate?  

In my experience there are far too few Oregonians in Congress sponsoring or co-sponsoring this type of legislation.  We'd like to see a real leader from Oregon on these issues.  Is that you?  I am somewhat familiar with your track record here in Oregon, but wouldn't mind being reminded of what you've done here specifically related to families.

Thanks for your willingness to do this live blog, what a great way to share info with 'the people.'  

Breastfeeding and more (3.00 / 16)
I championed successful legislation in Oregon for women returning to work to have much better conditions for breastfeeding or expressing milk.

Oregon's bill is now the model bill for the nation.

Under my leadership, we also passed the ability for people to use sick leave as family leave.  In the Oregon House, we also established paid family leave but unfortunately the bill fell a few votes short in the Oregon Senate.

I think this gives you some sense of my effort to fight for working families.

In addition, we passed a host of bills related to workers access to unemployment benefits, stopping the abusive use of noncompete contracts, and enabling workers to join a union through "card-check".

[ Parent ]
I'd like to add to Merkley's comment... (3.00 / 12)
He also championed the Rainy Day fund for public schools and payday lending regulation.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Hey Jeff (3.00 / 10)
Thanks so much for coming by.

I am currently undecided but I am impressed by a lot of stuff you have been saying. But rather then ask you a question about something you are already good on I am going to ask you to explain why you are against full marriage equality. That is one thing that is really holding me back from enthusiastic support of you and I would love to see a answer.

Thanks so much!  

I hope Jeff will answer this one (3.00 / 13)
because it's been a meme pushed on the web that isn't true. Merkley is for full marriage equality.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
If true (3.00 / 6)
That would push me firmly into his camp. But domestic partnerships is not equality and from what I understand Jeff takes the same position as John Edwards and Barack Obama not the same position as Elizabeth Edwards.

I could be wrong though which is why I asked the question.

[ Parent ]
He is for full marriage equality (3.00 / 10)
He wasn't able to push gay marriage through the House because the state banned it back in 2004. He went the domestic partnership route, I do know that he is for full marriage equality, even though he couldn't push that because of state laws.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Well that is good (3.00 / 3)
But it isn't about if he pushed it or not but if he would support it if it came to a vote.
[ Parent ]
Marriage Equality (3.00 / 18)
I've been a strong proponent of marriage equality.

Unfortunately we keep hearing that my primary opponent is spreading stories to the contrary. That's unfortunate.

I championed Domestic Partnerships and basic rights here in Oregon (the Oregon Constitution under Measure 36 disallows full marriage equality) and I believe that I am the only major U.S. Senate candidate who has been in the trenches fighting on these issues.

Because of my championships of these issues, I've recieved the endorsement of Oregon's GLBTQ advocates: Basic Rights Oregon.

[ Parent ]
Thank you for your answer sir. (3.00 / 4)
But that is not full marriage equality. Have you fought for a constitutional amendment for full marriage equality? Would you support legislation on a federal level allowing for full marriage equality?

I very much admire the work and progress that has been done in Oregon on this issue and I understand you have been a key player in that. But domestic partnerships and basic rights isn't the same as equality.

Don't get me wrong, I admire the work you have done. But to be for marriage equality you have to be for marriage equality. Not just domestic partnerships. It is true that I have been hearing things to the contrary and I just want to clear it up.

Thanks.

[ Parent ]
Jeff, I want you to know that many of us... (3.00 / 10)
are outraged at the attempts to characterize your support of full and complete equal rights for all Oregonians as anything less than courageous leadership in the struggle.  Basic Rights Oregon accurately gives you much of the credit in our progress towards full equality in their endorsement of your candidacy.

I understand your reluctance to "go negative" in responding to the distortions of your positions which have been rampant.  Please know that there are many of us who refuse to remain silent when we witness those attacks.


Healthcare NOT Warfare! (Petition)

[ Parent ]
Have I been mislead? (3.00 / 5)
I keep hearing different things from both sides and I can't tell who is telling the truth.

Does Jeff favor full marriage equality at the state and federal level? At the state level that would be a constitutional amendment and at the national level it would be legislation for full marriage equality.

If Jeff does support such steps I would turn into a committed supporter of his. I am not trying to attack Jeff. I am already leaning his way but I wish I could be fully in his camp and that's why I asked the question.

[ Parent ]
In his reply to you, he stated unequivocally... (3.00 / 9)
"I have been a strong proponent of marriage equality."

In the immediate wake of passage by the voters of an Oregon constitutional amendment, at great political risk, Jeff led the charge to pass domestic partnerships.  He has never abandoned the cause of full marriage equality, and was willing to set himself up for attack from the right for "overturning the will of the people" to secure as many of the rights for sexual and gender minorities as possible.

It is simply unfair in the extreme to repay that kind of leadership with charges that he is willing to settle for second class citizenship for anyone this country.

There are few Oregon politicians who, like Jeff, have stated their support of the GLBT community so unequivocally.  His record clearly shows that we are not going to have to hold his feet to the fire on this one.  He has earned our support.

Healthcare NOT Warfare! (Petition)

[ Parent ]
Good to hear (3.00 / 8)
I wish someone would give me a straight answer. But it appears as if Jeff is indeed for full marriage equality which probably makes me even firmer in his camp.

Thanks again to Jeff for the answer!  

[ Parent ]
Straight answer (3.00 / 10)
Jeff Merkley favors full marriage equality at the state and federal level.

I'm sorry it took a few minutes to get the responses out. We were getting to your follow-up at the same time Jeff was being pulled out to his next meeting.  It took me a little while to see that you had posted it.

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon

[ Parent ]
Thanks Carla and thanks for (3.00 / 4)
all the great work you do!
[ Parent ]
Full marriage equality (3.00 / 9)
Does Jeff favor full marriage equality at the state and federal level? At the state level that would be a constitutional amendment and at the national level it would be legislation for full marriage equality.

Yes, Jeff favors full marriage equality at the state and the federal level.

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon

[ Parent ]
Donation link (3.00 / 13)
In case anyone wants to donate to help elect Jeff Merkley to the Senate here is his ActBlue page.
Thanks Speaker Merkley for coming by and talking with us! (3.00 / 14)
I really appreciate you engaging the netroots during this campaign!

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
Yes, thank you for taking the time to be with us here today Jeff. (3.00 / 10)
It was truly a pleasure.

I have been thinking that I would make a proposition to my Republican friends... that if they will stop telling lies about the Democrats, we will stop telling the truth about them.
Adlai Stevenson

[ Parent ]
I third that motion. (3.00 / 9)
Or something. Thanks.
[ Parent ]
I favor the motion (3.00 / 7)
I think that is what it would be at this stage.
[ Parent ]
Hey Jeff! (3.00 / 12)
I was wondering, when you get to the Senate, what issue (and what facet of that issue if applicable) would be your highest priority?

I like everything you're saying, so I am just curious about which issue you would say needed the most urgent attention (and there are so many unfortunately...)

Also, as you know, John Edwards is committed to ending poverty. What are your thoughts on ways to begin tackling this problem in our country?

And thanks for doing this live blog here on the EENR!  :D

--poligirl

(-5.75,-4.92) "Compromise sounds a lot like capitulation, doesn't it?" --Elizabeth Edwards

Hey, poligirl! (3.00 / 6)
Did you get the email I sent you after you and Predictor talked last night? I think I sent it this morning.
[ Parent ]
thanks! :D yes i did and i just went there... :D (3.00 / 6)


(-5.75,-4.92) "Compromise sounds a lot like capitulation, doesn't it?" --Elizabeth Edwards
[ Parent ]
woot! cool beans and welcome aboard! n/t (3.00 / 4)


Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. MLK Jr  
[ Parent ]
Merkley spoke about this a little upthread (3.00 / 5)
here's what he had to say:

Under my leadership, we also passed the ability for people to use sick leave as family leave.  In the Oregon House, we also established paid family leave but unfortunately the bill fell a few votes short in the Oregon Senate.

I think this gives you some sense of my effort to fight for working families.

In addition, we passed a host of bills related to workers access to unemployment benefits, stopping the abusive use of noncompete contracts, and enabling workers to join a union through "card-check".



Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Welcome to our Blog Mr. Speaker (3.00 / 11)
Thank you for interacting with we Progressives.

My partner and I  are a Members of the GLBT Community. In California we have Legal Civil Unions.
My Questions therefore are:

1. Does Oregon have Legal Civil Unions for the GLBT Communities?
2. Do you support the repeal of DADT?

3. Will you vote against any attempt to limit the Civil rights of the GLBT Community, eg DOMA?


Thank you also for your fine service and taking on the task of running for the US Senate against an Incumbent Republican.
Best Regards, Ed (EENR Editorial Board)



(-8.50/-7.44) "If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion." Dalai Lama

Here in Oregon, Merkley pushed though domestic partnerships (3.00 / 9)
legislation. He fought for it, trust me!

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
He is also on record against DOMA... (3.00 / 10)
and fought against passage of an equivalent state measure.

Healthcare NOT Warfare! (Petition)
[ Parent ]
Thank you jgilhousen (3.00 / 7)
Appreciate your response, sorry I was late to the Liveblog but Lunch with my "other half" was limited to his work timeframe and as I am disabled, one of us has to work.
Cheers,Ed



(-8.50/-7.44) "If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion." Dalai Lama

[ Parent ]
Civil unions (3.00 / 10)
Oregon has a new Domestic Partnership law which passed in the 2007 session.  Jeff was a vocal and strong champion for this legislation as well as an anti-discrimination law that was passed in the same session.

Jeff has said that he would definitely support a repeal of DOMA. I believe that he has said the same thing about DADT, but I would need to clarify that with him for sure..and he's left.   If you would like to follow up with me in email on that one, that would be best. My email is carla (at) jeffmerkley (dot) com.

[ Parent ]
Thank you for the response Carla (3.00 / 11)
as you can imagine this is an important issue for many of us. This year in California we were in fact required to file a Joint Tax return, which turned out to be enough of a benefit to pay for the Medical Insurance costs that my Partner has to pay to carry me on his Insurance.
This is not just a simple Civil Rights issue, it also has Economic impacts as well.
Regards,Ed



(-8.50/-7.44) "If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion." Dalai Lama

[ Parent ]
Hey all (3.00 / 14)
Just so you know, Jeff had to run to the next meeting..so I'll be here for a few minutes to "bat clean-up". I wish he could have stayed a little longer, but Senate campaigns being what they are..he had to take off.

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon

Thank you, Carla! (3.00 / 11)
We really enjoyed having him live blog with us, and thank you for batting clean-up!
[ Parent ]
There was a question upthread about the Columbia trade deal (3.00 / 9)
do you know where Merkley stands on the issue? Thanks for setting this up Carla!

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Thanks, Sarah... (3.00 / 7)
I gave a short response on it. If anyone once follow-up or has further questions, please email me at carla (at) jeffmerkley (dot) com.

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon

[ Parent ]
*WANTS* follow-up (3.00 / 8)
Oy...sorry about that. LOL

[ Parent ]
Hi Jeff (3.00 / 8)
This is probably out of place, since I am way down in what is unfortunately known as Bush country via TX, but consumer rights is an important issue for me, as well as patients' rights which fall into that category. It's a shame that the Patient's Bill of Rights was killed by Republicans in the house by butchering the ability of patients who are consumers in our system to sue for damages done by medical negligence. As you might be aware, about 100,000 people die every year from preventable medical errors and there is a movement against consers that started in the eighties called te tort reform movement. This movement slanders and misrepresents the good work of many plaintiffs' attorney like John edwards and they have won many victories, thus limiting our right to sue corporations for their misdoings and crimes.

They have successfully taken away the rights deeply rooted in the seventh amendment to have a jury decide what damages are appropriate in each case, thus putting caps on the amount of damages and over-packing Federal courts who don't have the resources to hear each case like state courts do in order to also curtail any accountability for corporations, insurance companies who deny care, or pharmaceutical companies who make dangerous drugs that kill people like Vioxx with no repercussions.

This is also a constitutional issue that also relates to some other problems like the Military Commissions Act and the Patriot Act and it's abuses there, but ultimately my question would be what action can you take or would you take to make sure that the Bill of Rights is properly interpreted in the courts? Blocking Bush's SCOTUS nominees is a good start, but how are we going to curtail the damage done to the Bill of Rights in relation to consumer rights and all rights abroad?

Long question and statement and I know you have an obligation to your constituents first, but I like this community and I'm somewhat well known throughout, so I just wanted to take this opportunity to ask you this question, because I want to make sure we still have a Bill of Rights by the time the next POTUS is sworn in.

Thanks you.


Excellent question priceman. (3.00 / 7)

[ Parent ]
Thanks, valsagem. :) n/t (3.00 / 5)



[ Parent ]
Consumer rights and rights abroad (3.00 / 10)
This is kind of a broad question and I'm not sure I can give you the complete answer without Jeff sitting here, but I'll see if I can scratch the surface.

First of all, I think you're right on the money about blocking bad nominees to the bench.  Jeff came out very strongly against the nomination of Southwick for the Fifth Circuit Court, which of course Gordon Smith voted for.  Jeff would be a vigorous proponent for making certain that candidates for the bench uphold the highest standard--including strong questioning on their positions having to do with the Bill of Rights.

Jeff has consistently articulated how appalled he's been with the way that the rule of law has been trampled under the Bush Administration.

Curtailing the damage abroad is going to take a lot of work. Jeff has said that first we must take the lead by example here at home..and then return to honoring the Geneva Conventions.  

I can't speak to further specifics without him here, but I will say that Jeff has a depth of foreign policy experience that few other Senate candidates match. He will bring that experience to bear as a U.S. Senator..knowing the importance of strong, positive relationships with other nations.

I know your question is likely not fully answered. So please, follow up with me at carla (at) jeffmerkley (dot) com if you want more specifics.

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon

[ Parent ]
Thank you, carla (3.00 / 7)
Southwick has a very troubling history on the Mississippi Court of Appeals, routinely deciding against plaintiffs in cases involving racial discrimination, injured workers, and consumers.

Blocking Southwick is definitely a good start too answering my question, which does affect me and my state, even though I am not actively one of his constituents, so I think you did pretty well. Shame on Gordon Smith.   I believe Jeff Merkley is an exceptional candidate for the U.S Senate and I'm glad to see a candidate who abhors torture and respects the Geneva Conventions, as well.

It is going to take a lot of work and I know there is probably only so much he can do, but this is definitely a good start. I just worry about the continued deterioration of the Bill of Rights and sometimes wonder if we can ever curtail the abuses. there are certain specifics, like opposing any and all caps on the amount of punitive damages, not over-packing the Federal Courts with cases so they will get lost on appeal or struck down through lack of resources,  as well as blocking nominees, but you have given me some excellent information and candidates like Jeff do give me hope; he especially gives hope to friends of mine like sarahlane and others who live in Oregon, and if we get enough candidates like him who respect the rule of law and abhor the abuse of it as in this administration, then there is some light at the end of the tunnel.

I'm hoping for a substantial majority in the House and Senate, so we can end the war, curtail corporate abuses in all aspects there and on all domestic policies, and pass HR 676.

Thank you.


[ Parent ]
Welcome, Jeff (3.00 / 10)
I just read Sarahlane's bio of you and your responses and am impressed. We need more progressive senators like you and Andrew Rice in the new Senate.

It will take a lot of hard work, though. When I read about McCain's popularity and the polls in this Red state and the nation as a whole, I reflexively have to slap my head. I hope that this is a historical inversion where local candidates provide coattails to the national candidate.

My stand has been to stop spending money on everything except food, utilities, repairs, books and crafts--and political/nonprofit donations. This does several things: provide less wear and tear on the planet, and support progressive candidates. will try to add you to the list.  

Methane is carbon dioxide on steroids, and global warming is uncapping a methane soda bottle in the subsea Arctic.

Welcome to the forum (3.00 / 10)
We are honored to have you here.  John Edwards was/is our shining jewel and I'm sure he'll be around again helping those that can't help themselves.

Can you tell us what you see as the number one issue facing America today (if it is possible to reduce it to one).  Thanks.

US Casualties-Afghanastan Can click date link to see by date.


The imperative is to define what is right and do it. Barbara Jordan

Jeff had to go... (3.00 / 11)
...but as I've heard him respond a similar question (the most important thing facing Oregonians..), I'll offer this...

Jeff has said that the most important issue facing Oregonians is global warming. It ties into all of our major issues: oil and the war in Iraq, climate change, the economy and jobs, etc.  

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon
 

[ Parent ]
Thanks. (3.00 / 6)
Our country certainly has a full plate of problems.

US Casualties-Afghanastan Can click date link to see by date.


The imperative is to define what is right and do it. Barbara Jordan
[ Parent ]
Greetings from Virginia ! (3.00 / 10)
Good luck to you Jeff and welcome to the EENRb.

Thank you all! (3.00 / 8)
Thank you so much for providing this incredible format for discussion here at EENR.  The positive vibe in this place is wonderful and both Jeff and I really enjoyed it.

We really value the opportunity to be here and talk with you about the pressing issues facing our nation. The netroots are an incredibly important part of this discussion and key to the success of so many candidates and issues.  

I've been a blogger here in Oregon since early 2004.  This is my first campaign as a staffer. It's been an incredible experience for me, working with Jeff and the rest of the staff. I've learned so much! And I've met some amazing bloggers from around the country because of this experience. I feel so honored to be a part of it.

Thank you all for your great questions and taking the time to talk with Jeff today. Please feel free to follow up with me at carla (at) jeffmerkley (dot) com.

Carla--Netroots Outreach, Jeff Merkley for Oregon

Thanks again for setting this up Carla (3.00 / 6)
and having this great conversation with us! It was a lot of fun! I'm really glad I got to ask Jeff about the issue of torture and holding investigations on the matter.  

Netroots Director for Oregon Senate Candidate Jeff Merkley
[ Parent ]
Great session (3.00 / 3)
If I were in OR, I´d vote for you, Merkley. I´m in TX and will be voting for Rick Noriega. Hope he can keep you company in the Senate. Kay Bailey is bad enough company, but having Cornyn too is horrible.
I'm Jeff Merkley..running for U.S. Senate for Oregon | 121 comments
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