Dorchester – The Governor’s Debate

The Dorchester Gubernatorial debate moderator U.S. Congressman Greg Walden introduced candidates, Allen Alley, Chris Dudley, and John Lim.

In their opening statements Sen. Lim declared he was within several points of his opponent. Mr. Dudley said now is the time to stay, fight, and move Oregon in a new direction. Mr. Alley called the Republican Party the party of “Know” (as in we know what to do).

Dudley veered toward something different when he began his opening statements by walking away from the poduim and strolling along the stage talking to the audience. Greg Walden, the moderator, reminded everyone that speakers must stay at the poduim and the brief momement of creativity was put to a halt.

When Lim was asked what is the difference between the candidates he said that Dudley was “taller” and Alley was “fatter” which brought outrageous laughter from the audience.
All three candidates agreed jobs were vital importance to the future of Oregon, with Sen. Lim stating he would bring jobs from Asia, Mr. Dudley saying education was key to future jobs. After much touting about “jobs”, Alley stated that it is more than “jobs” because jobs come and go — instead it is about “careers” and how we need to create long-lasting careers in Oregon.

One of Dudley’s best points was emphasizing that the power of the governor that gets overlooked is the hundreds of boards and commissioners that the governor appoints. One of Alley’s best points is that he said he was the only GOP governor candidate to show-up to union, OEA and Seirra Club governor candidate meetings because he feels it is important that a governor be strong enough to talk to all Oregonians including ones traditionally ignored by Republicans.

When asked their differences, Mr. Lim cited his long services in the legislature, Mr. Alley, his long career in business, and Mr. Dudley his background as an outsider, and basketball player.

Mr. Lim said if the legislature keeps the kicker we need to “kick them out”. He promised to run the government “lean and clean”.

Mr. Alley recalled his 400 mile walk across Oregon and how it helped him develop a sensitivity for the problems of Eastern and rural Oregon. He said, “This is end of walk and beginning of the future of Oregon.”

Mr. Dudley summed his message with, “We need to change direction and the time is now!”