Measure 46 & 47?

[plutherus]

This is a question for people in Oregon (or people who've been paying attention to Oregon elections)

OK, looking over the voter's guide, I think I've figured out where I'm voting on most of them. (Yes, despite my temporary relocation to California, I'm still an Oregon resident!).

I have questions about Measures 46 & 47, though.

At first glance, I'd say YES to both of these: it looks like they'd add campaign spending limits and, more importantly, mandatory disclosure of the source of all financing in all campaigns. (Yeah, I know, groups can always just make up fake names like "Swiftboat veterans for Truth" even if they're mostly non-veterans, who've never been near a swiftboat and have nothing to do with truth, but still, it's a step in the right direction).

Especially since these groups have to publicly state who ("Karl Rove", for instance) is actually on their boards.

But, it looks like a great many groups, including Planned Parenthood, the Oregon Education Association, and others, are against it.

So, before I mail in my ballot, what's your opinions on this one? If this isn't a great idea, why not?

Comments

[dar205.livejournal.com]

Should I have received my ballot already? I haven't, so I am curious if it got lost in the move.

[whpingboy.livejournal.com]

from what I have heard the measure is too broad and would basically inhibit grass roots candidates who do not have lots of contributors giving them a little money each, in being able to campaign on anything like a level playing field. so a good candidate with a good message that may have one or two groups willing to fund their campaign could not accept all of the money. it really sounds like the Repugnitans calling for a vote to completely pull out of iraq right now, knowing that it wouldn't pass. in this case it will give them something to use as a reason against any real reform, in the future, and really it wouldn't hurt many of the Repugnitans or incumbents. I am pretty sure it is the wrong bill at the right time. BTW i haven't decided on how all I am going to vote. this is just from what I have heard about it.