Allen Alley challenges Ben Westlund to debates

Press Release from the Allen Alley campaign:

Allen Alley Challenges Ben Westlund to Series of Debates

Citing the need for new leadership in Oregon, long-time business leader and senior Kulongoski aide sets sight on general election. Calls on Ben Westlund to agree to series of public debates.

Portland, OR — Allen Alley, long recognized as one of Oregon’s most prominent business and community leaders, launched his general election campaign for the office of Oregon State Treasurer. Alley was Chairman and CEO of Pixelworks for ten years before accepting the offer to serve as Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Kulongoski. He served in the Office of the Governor from January 2007 through February 2008. Allen and his wife, Debbie, have three children and live in Lake Oswego.

“We deserve people in public office who can bring new ideas and energy to this state. While other career politicians have been running for office, I have spent the last 30 years growing companies and jobs that enrich our communities. Oregonians need a Treasurer with real world experience they can trust,” said Alley.

Alley has been identified as one of the most admired CEOs in Oregon (Portland Business Journal, 2005) and was called the Tech Executive of the Year in 2002 (Portland Business Journal). Pixelworks, the company he helped found and led for ten years, was started with four friends who chipped in $10,000 from personal savings and credit cards to launch their vision of a world-class semiconductor company. In its first eleven years, Pixelworks grew to $30 million in value — 3000% more than the initial investment. Along the way, the company sold over $1 billion in goods, paid out over $150 million in salaries to Oregon employees, and contributed more than $1 million to local charities.

His deep experience in the business world informs many of his judgments about government.

“Working for the Governor gave me a unique perspective. I see many outstanding people working in government, but the bureaucracy oftentimes promotes the status quo and does not allow our public services to innovate or operate efficiently,” said Alley.

“We need leaders who can bring new ideas and energy to change Oregon. I will work to keep our economy strong in a highly competitive world by expanding our focus on sustainable resources, making education accessible to all citizens, and protecting the natural resources we all treasure. I promise to be that type of leader,” added Alley.

The State Treasurer has an enormous responsibility in managing the 41st largest investment fund in the world. The Treasurer manages the retirement funds for teachers, police officers and others who serve our state. The Treasurer also helps manage public education school funding and college savings plans, as well as housing programs for veterans and first-time homebuyers. As one of three members of the State Land Board, the State Treasurer also helps to manage our state lands.

“The State Treasurer has a big job. So, it’s incumbent upon the candidates to educate the public about the office and their respective experience that qualifies them to carry out its duties,” said Alley. “I ask my opponent to agree to a series of five debates around the state so the public can make an informed choice in this election.”

If you have a media inquiry or interview request, please email [email protected] or call Chris Bright at (503) 307-1261.
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