Every Wednesday, the Oregon Republican League will post the biographies of important figures, in the League's/State of Oregon's history. Feel free to comment or share stories of your family's Republican affiliation.
Governor Mark O. Hatfield
Biographical Note
Mark O. Hatfield was governor of the State of Oregon from January 12, 1959 to January 9, 1967.
Hatfield was born in Dallas, Oregon, on July 12. 1922, to Charles Dolen and Dovie Odem Hatfield. He graduated with a B.A. from Willamette University in 1943 and an M.A. degree Stanford University in 1948.
From 1943 to 1946 Hatfield served in the United States Naval Reserve as a lieutenant junior grade. During World War II he served in the Pacific in landing craft operations. His trip into Hiroshima a month after the bomb had been dropped formed his view against nuclear war and nuclear weapons. After World War II he was assigned to French Indochina (Vietnam). This experience shaped his views about imperalism and colonialism and his strong stand against the Vietnam War.
Hatfield taught political science and was dean of students at Willamette University, Salem, Oregon from 1949 to 1956.
Hatfield began his political career in the Oregon legislature in 1951. He served in the Oregon House of Representatives from 1951-1955 and in the Oregon Senate from 1955-1957. He became the youngest Secretary of State in Oregon history in 1957, and held that office for two years, until he was elected governor in 1958.
Hatfield, a Republican, defeated Democrat incumbent Robert D. Holmes. Among the major accomplishments of Hatfield's administration were the passage of a tax cut in 1959, the establishment of a state-backed birth control system, the prohibition of capital punishment in the state, and the reapportionment of the state's congressional districts. Hatfield was reelected in 1962, defeating Democratic challenger Robert Y. Thornton.
Hatfield served as U.S. Senator from Oregon from 1967 to 1996. He consistently voted against military appropriations, voted to end the war in Vietnam, co-sponsored a nuclear freeze resolution with Senator Edward Kennedy and called for a Code of Conduct to regulate US arms sales. Senator Hatfield served as chairman of the Appropriations Committee.
Hatfield married Antoinette Kuzmanich on July 8, 1958 and has four children.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Friday, March 23, 2007
GOPAC's 10 Questions Every Candidate Should Be Prepared To Answer
http://gopac.org/training/10_questions.php
10 Questions Every Candidate Should Be Prepared To Answer
In every campaign, you will face hundreds if not thousands of questions from reporters, citizens, voters, donors, supporters, and opponents. Some you will answer well. Others you will wish you had the chance to answer again. With a little bit of practice and preplanning, you can develop effective ways to articulate your beliefs, avoid missteps and be your campaign’s own best salesman.
These ten questions cover a wide range of campaign activity and are some of the most commonly asked of candidates in campaigns. Study them. Decide now how you would answer them. Practice.
Why are you running?
What is your greatest strength? What is your greatest weakness?
What is your opponent’s greatest weakness? What is your opponent’s greatest strength?
How will you establish an effective contrast to your opponent?
What is your campaign theme? What are the 3 to 5 core issues your campaign is about?
How will you assemble an army of volunteers and supporters to help you?
How many votes do you need to win?
How much money do you need to raise? Where will it come from?
How much money have you raised and how much do you have on hand?
When you win, how do you intend to make a difference?
10 Questions Every Candidate Should Be Prepared To Answer
In every campaign, you will face hundreds if not thousands of questions from reporters, citizens, voters, donors, supporters, and opponents. Some you will answer well. Others you will wish you had the chance to answer again. With a little bit of practice and preplanning, you can develop effective ways to articulate your beliefs, avoid missteps and be your campaign’s own best salesman.
These ten questions cover a wide range of campaign activity and are some of the most commonly asked of candidates in campaigns. Study them. Decide now how you would answer them. Practice.
Why are you running?
What is your greatest strength? What is your greatest weakness?
What is your opponent’s greatest weakness? What is your opponent’s greatest strength?
How will you establish an effective contrast to your opponent?
What is your campaign theme? What are the 3 to 5 core issues your campaign is about?
How will you assemble an army of volunteers and supporters to help you?
How many votes do you need to win?
How much money do you need to raise? Where will it come from?
How much money have you raised and how much do you have on hand?
When you win, how do you intend to make a difference?
Oregon Republican League Spring Beach Cleanup
Oregon Republican League Spring Beach Cleanup:
DRESS WARMLY AND EXPECT RAIN
March 24th, 2007
8:00 am to 11:00 am (early again)
Fort Stevens, Hammond, Oregon
Meet at the South Jetty Parking Lot, by the Bar Tower
Debris bags, Truck, T-Shirts, coffee, tea & water provided
Check-in: Tony Larson, TonyLarson@aol.com
Most signups have already been contacted by direct post. We're going to do this a bit earlier again, as we've scoped out some prime debris fields and another mess of tires. PLEASE do NOT touch the dead seals. There are a number in the area, and they pose serious health risks to people and pets.
Note: Participation is "at your own risk", as we do find dead critters, rusted metal and other gross material. SOLV is operating in the area this weekend as well. If another area of the coast works better for you,.. not a problem in the least. Of course, you can sign up with the local SOLV area chief for more organized endeavors all along the coast. We just ask that you let us know that you're out there, how many folks are with you and approximately how much material you recover.
Depending on interest, we may order sweatshirts in the future.
To review the SOLV site: http://www.solv.org
DRESS WARMLY AND EXPECT RAIN
March 24th, 2007
8:00 am to 11:00 am (early again)
Fort Stevens, Hammond, Oregon
Meet at the South Jetty Parking Lot, by the Bar Tower
Debris bags, Truck, T-Shirts, coffee, tea & water provided
Check-in: Tony Larson, TonyLarson@aol.com
Most signups have already been contacted by direct post. We're going to do this a bit earlier again, as we've scoped out some prime debris fields and another mess of tires. PLEASE do NOT touch the dead seals. There are a number in the area, and they pose serious health risks to people and pets.
Note: Participation is "at your own risk", as we do find dead critters, rusted metal and other gross material. SOLV is operating in the area this weekend as well. If another area of the coast works better for you,.. not a problem in the least. Of course, you can sign up with the local SOLV area chief for more organized endeavors all along the coast. We just ask that you let us know that you're out there, how many folks are with you and approximately how much material you recover.
Depending on interest, we may order sweatshirts in the future.
To review the SOLV site: http://www.solv.org
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Oregon Republican League: History 104 Biographies
Every Wednesday, the Oregon Republican League will post the biographies of important figures, in the League's/State of Oregon's history. Feel free to comment or share stories of your family's Republican affiliation.
Governor Elmo Smith
Biographical Note
Elmo E. Smith was governor from February 1, 1956 to January 14, 1957.
Elmo Everett Smith was born on November 19, 1909 near Grand Junction, Colorado, to Wilmer E. and Katie (Mohler) Smith. He had four sisters and two brothers. He grew up on an uncle's ranch near Wilder, Idaho, after his mother and father died when he was 10 and 13, respectively. After he worked his way through the College of Idaho and received a B.A. in History in 1932, he moved to Ontario, Oregon. In 1933 Smith married Dorothy Leininger of Fayette, Idaho. He established himself as a newspaper owner and publisher. Voters twice elected him Mayor of Ontario before World War II. He resigned as Mayor in 1943 to enlist in the navy. After two years in the South Pacific, where he commanded a naval air transport base, he returned to Ontario and once again was elected mayor.
In 1948 Smith was elected to the Oregon Senate, representing Grant, Harney and Malheur counties. By that time he had sold his Ontario newspaper and purchased the John Day Blue-Mountain Eagle and an interest in the Madras Pioneer. As senator, he pushed hard for an equitable weight-mile tax for highway usage, and secured its passage in the legislature and approval by the voters in a referendum, defeating the trucking and logging interests who opposed it. He chaired the Roads and Highways Committee after Paul Patterson became Governor. In 1955 he was elected President of the Senate.
Patterson's death in 1956 elevated Smith to the governorship. Almost immediately he began a campaign to retain the office, and although he won the Republican primary easily, he lost to Democrat Robert Holmes in the general election, by a vote of 361,840 to 369.439. After leaving the governorship, Smith expanded his publishing activities, purchasing the Albany Democrat-Herald and several smaller weeklies. He sought office again upon the death of United States Senator Richard Neuberger, but lost to Neuberger's widow, Maureen. In 1964 Smith failed in his effort to become Republican National Committeeman; instead he was selected State Chairman of the Republican Party. Smith died of cancer on July 15, 1968 in Albany, and was buried in Willamette Memorial Park Mausoleum.
Governor Elmo Smith
Biographical Note
Elmo E. Smith was governor from February 1, 1956 to January 14, 1957.
Elmo Everett Smith was born on November 19, 1909 near Grand Junction, Colorado, to Wilmer E. and Katie (Mohler) Smith. He had four sisters and two brothers. He grew up on an uncle's ranch near Wilder, Idaho, after his mother and father died when he was 10 and 13, respectively. After he worked his way through the College of Idaho and received a B.A. in History in 1932, he moved to Ontario, Oregon. In 1933 Smith married Dorothy Leininger of Fayette, Idaho. He established himself as a newspaper owner and publisher. Voters twice elected him Mayor of Ontario before World War II. He resigned as Mayor in 1943 to enlist in the navy. After two years in the South Pacific, where he commanded a naval air transport base, he returned to Ontario and once again was elected mayor.
In 1948 Smith was elected to the Oregon Senate, representing Grant, Harney and Malheur counties. By that time he had sold his Ontario newspaper and purchased the John Day Blue-Mountain Eagle and an interest in the Madras Pioneer. As senator, he pushed hard for an equitable weight-mile tax for highway usage, and secured its passage in the legislature and approval by the voters in a referendum, defeating the trucking and logging interests who opposed it. He chaired the Roads and Highways Committee after Paul Patterson became Governor. In 1955 he was elected President of the Senate.
Patterson's death in 1956 elevated Smith to the governorship. Almost immediately he began a campaign to retain the office, and although he won the Republican primary easily, he lost to Democrat Robert Holmes in the general election, by a vote of 361,840 to 369.439. After leaving the governorship, Smith expanded his publishing activities, purchasing the Albany Democrat-Herald and several smaller weeklies. He sought office again upon the death of United States Senator Richard Neuberger, but lost to Neuberger's widow, Maureen. In 1964 Smith failed in his effort to become Republican National Committeeman; instead he was selected State Chairman of the Republican Party. Smith died of cancer on July 15, 1968 in Albany, and was buried in Willamette Memorial Park Mausoleum.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Oregon Republican League: History 104 Biographies
Every Wednesday, the Oregon Republican League will post the biographies of important figures, in the League's/State of Oregon's history. Feel free to comment or share stories of your family's Republican affiliation.
Governor Paul L. Patterson
Biographical Note
Paul L. Patterson was governor from December 27, 1952 to January 31, 1956.
Patterson was born in Renton, Ohio on July 18, 1900. After service in the army during World War I, he entered the University of Oregon where he received a bachelor's degree in business administration in 1923 and a law degree in 1926. Patterson established a private law practice in Washington County which he maintained until 1952. He also served as Deputy District Attorney for Washington County from 1926 to 1933. For many years he served as City Attorney for Hillsboro and surrounding communities.
Patterson's political career began in 1944 when he ran for the Oregon Senate as a Republican from Washington County. He served in the Senate from 1945 until 1952. On December 17, 1952, as President of the Senate, he succeeded to the governorship upon the resignation of Douglas McKay. He defeated Joseph K. Carson in the general election in 1954.
As governor, Patterson scrutinized state expenditures and guarded the state's reserve funds, while seeking federal funds to meet the water reclamation and unemployment problems that faced the state. He worked with Senator Elmo Smith to pass in 1955 the law which created a state surface and ground-water code and established the Water Resources Board to monitor and regulate it.
Patterson opposed new taxes. No sales tax should be adopted, he said, except through a popular initiative. He asked for but failed to get repeal of the federal income tax offset against the state income tax.
In the early 1950s he asked for more resources to curb unemployment. He successfully lobbied the federal government to sell up to 10 billion feet of wind-blown timber in small lots, to keep Oregon lumber workers busy during the winter season.
He continued to lend strong support to the national highway program in Oregon. He supported the federal government's partnership approach to hydroelectric projects.
Patterson championed local home rule and simplified government. "The problems of this country are too vast and too varied for one governmental unit to solve. Our future lies in upholding the rights of the states so they can approach and solve their own problems," Governor Patterson said in a speech to the national convention of Municipal Leagues in 1953.
Patterson challenged Wayne Morse for the United States Senate in 1956. Two days after his formal announcement on January 31, 1956, he collapsed and died from a coronary occlusion. After services at the state capitol on February 3, his remains were cremated in Mt. Crest Abbey, Salem, Oregon.
Governor Paul L. Patterson
Biographical Note
Paul L. Patterson was governor from December 27, 1952 to January 31, 1956.
Patterson was born in Renton, Ohio on July 18, 1900. After service in the army during World War I, he entered the University of Oregon where he received a bachelor's degree in business administration in 1923 and a law degree in 1926. Patterson established a private law practice in Washington County which he maintained until 1952. He also served as Deputy District Attorney for Washington County from 1926 to 1933. For many years he served as City Attorney for Hillsboro and surrounding communities.
Patterson's political career began in 1944 when he ran for the Oregon Senate as a Republican from Washington County. He served in the Senate from 1945 until 1952. On December 17, 1952, as President of the Senate, he succeeded to the governorship upon the resignation of Douglas McKay. He defeated Joseph K. Carson in the general election in 1954.
As governor, Patterson scrutinized state expenditures and guarded the state's reserve funds, while seeking federal funds to meet the water reclamation and unemployment problems that faced the state. He worked with Senator Elmo Smith to pass in 1955 the law which created a state surface and ground-water code and established the Water Resources Board to monitor and regulate it.
Patterson opposed new taxes. No sales tax should be adopted, he said, except through a popular initiative. He asked for but failed to get repeal of the federal income tax offset against the state income tax.
In the early 1950s he asked for more resources to curb unemployment. He successfully lobbied the federal government to sell up to 10 billion feet of wind-blown timber in small lots, to keep Oregon lumber workers busy during the winter season.
He continued to lend strong support to the national highway program in Oregon. He supported the federal government's partnership approach to hydroelectric projects.
Patterson championed local home rule and simplified government. "The problems of this country are too vast and too varied for one governmental unit to solve. Our future lies in upholding the rights of the states so they can approach and solve their own problems," Governor Patterson said in a speech to the national convention of Municipal Leagues in 1953.
Patterson challenged Wayne Morse for the United States Senate in 1956. Two days after his formal announcement on January 31, 1956, he collapsed and died from a coronary occlusion. After services at the state capitol on February 3, his remains were cremated in Mt. Crest Abbey, Salem, Oregon.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Oregon Republican League: 2007 Dorchester Sponsors
2007 DORCHESTER SPONSORS
Thank You!
Wal-Mart * K-PAM
Lifewise Health Plan of Oregon * Oregon Association of Nurseries * Oregon Bankers Association * Qwest * Representative Wayne Scott *
UBS Financial Services * Willamette Valley Vineyards
Bridgeview Winery
Mick Mortlock/ Democracy Talking
Bristol- Myers Squibb Company * Credit Union Association of Oregon * Dave Barrows & Associates * Eli Lilly- Nate Miles * Oregon Beer and Wine Distributors Association * Oregon Farm Bureau Federation *
Oregon Health Care Association * Portland General Electric *
Representative Brian and Peggy Boquist * Representative Karen Minnis *
Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli
Northwest Food Processors Association * Wooden Shoe Tulip Company
Adams & Company * Associated Oregon Loggers * Independent Electrical Contractors of Oregon * North Coast Republican Women * Oregon Medical Association * Representative Bruce Hanna * Representative Linda Flores * WilliamsPrice Ltd * WV Cross Enterprises
Mike Erickson * Perseverance Strategies, Inc- Justin Martin * Representative Dennis Richardson * Representative Ron Maurer
Beaverton-West Slope Republican Women * John T. Dillard
The Oregon Republican League
Baker County Farm Bureau * Duniway Forum * Gary Wilhelms *
Hood River County Farm Bureau * Jeff Caton & Associates LLC *
Lake Oswego Republican Women * Oregon Independent Auto Dealers Association * Riley Research Associates * Representative Andy Olson * Representative Gene Whisnant * Representative George Gilman * Representative Greg Smith * Representative Kim Thatcher *
Representative Kevin Cameron * Representative Vic Gilliam *
Rod Harder * Same Day Auto Service * Springer and Son Aloha Funeral Home * Springwood of Beaverton * Ted Hughes & Associates * Representative John Lim * The Oregon Federation of Republican Women
Jonathan Kloor, Inc.
Thank You!
Wal-Mart * K-PAM
Lifewise Health Plan of Oregon * Oregon Association of Nurseries * Oregon Bankers Association * Qwest * Representative Wayne Scott *
UBS Financial Services * Willamette Valley Vineyards
Bridgeview Winery
Mick Mortlock/ Democracy Talking
Bristol- Myers Squibb Company * Credit Union Association of Oregon * Dave Barrows & Associates * Eli Lilly- Nate Miles * Oregon Beer and Wine Distributors Association * Oregon Farm Bureau Federation *
Oregon Health Care Association * Portland General Electric *
Representative Brian and Peggy Boquist * Representative Karen Minnis *
Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli
Northwest Food Processors Association * Wooden Shoe Tulip Company
Adams & Company * Associated Oregon Loggers * Independent Electrical Contractors of Oregon * North Coast Republican Women * Oregon Medical Association * Representative Bruce Hanna * Representative Linda Flores * WilliamsPrice Ltd * WV Cross Enterprises
Mike Erickson * Perseverance Strategies, Inc- Justin Martin * Representative Dennis Richardson * Representative Ron Maurer
Beaverton-West Slope Republican Women * John T. Dillard
The Oregon Republican League
Baker County Farm Bureau * Duniway Forum * Gary Wilhelms *
Hood River County Farm Bureau * Jeff Caton & Associates LLC *
Lake Oswego Republican Women * Oregon Independent Auto Dealers Association * Riley Research Associates * Representative Andy Olson * Representative Gene Whisnant * Representative George Gilman * Representative Greg Smith * Representative Kim Thatcher *
Representative Kevin Cameron * Representative Vic Gilliam *
Rod Harder * Same Day Auto Service * Springer and Son Aloha Funeral Home * Springwood of Beaverton * Ted Hughes & Associates * Representative John Lim * The Oregon Federation of Republican Women
Jonathan Kloor, Inc.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Oregon Republican League: GOPAC Campaign Start-Up Check List
http://gopac.org/training/start_up_list.php
Campaign Start-Up Check List
Every campaign needs a beginning, middle and an end. The end is Election Day. The standard of measurement is simple – did you win or lose? The middle is characterized by the strategies, projects and tactics you use in pursuit of victory. But where and how do you begin? How do you reach that final decision to run? How do you fill in that first blank page of your campaign plan?
We have assembled this checklist to help you in the crucial start up phase of your campaign. It will also help you write your campaign plan.
Each section and each step is important. Think about these guidelines in the same way you must learn to think about your campaign: a series of tasks to be accomplished at the same time wherever and whenever possible. They are not an ironclad ordered document where point "A" must be complete before "B" can commence.
Personal
Talk with your family. The decision to run for any public office should not be taken lightly as it will impact your entire family. You and your family will be sacrificing an awful lot for you to run for office. On a piece of paper make two columns and write down the pluses and minuses of running for an elected office.
Legal Procedures
Know the exact procedures to declare you candidacy. These include: the exact paperwork required for filing; financial disclosure forms; certificate of candidate qualification; appointment of Campaign Treasurer; the payment of filing fees, petition fees, and petition signature requirements.
List all dates and deadlines for campaign filings and reports on a wall calendar. Include the absentee ballot information as well as primary, run-off and general elections dates.
Find out the procedure that dictates the order of the names on the ballot.
Does this procedure change from the primary election to the general election?
Obtain a copy of all the reports required to run for office as well as a schedule of when they are due and to whom they should be filed. This differs if it is a local, state, federal, or statewide race. For example: declaring a campaign committee; reports of campaign contributions and expenditures; campaign financial disclosure and the like. Take a moment to learn if any or all of these forms are available on line or in a software package.
Research the laws that govern your campaign. Learn the fundraising limits and procedures. What disclaimer requirements exist, if any, for printed materials, direct mail, radio and television advertisements? What are the absentee voting procedures? Where can political signs go?
Hire or obtain competent legal advice for your campaign. Real estate law differs from election law – make sure your counsel knows the difference.
Political Environment
Compile a district analysis and voter profile.
Collect maps of your district with precinct lines and legal boundaries. Also, detailed precinct maps, census maps, and street and road maps of all towns, cities, and counties.
Obtain voter lists. Find out the different format in which these lists are available. Have a plan for using the lists before you purchase or get them.
Ask specific questions to help you figure out what you need. Will you need primary voters? What about general election voters? Can you use voter lists compiled by previous phone banks?
Assemble Republican lists. Get the list of GOP national, state and local convention delegates. Who are the district wide Republican elected officials? Who are the county and local Republican Party officials? Where are the campaign staffers, key volunteers and steering committee members from previous GOP campaigns?
Analyze your district's voter history. What are the voter registration figures, if they are available? Get the list of registered voters by party, if available; past election results by precinct; past election voter registration numbers.
Assemble detailed background information on all other candidates. Interview your candidate; research his public record, research newspaper clippings, voting record, and community involvement.
Begin the process of developing an overall campaign strategy and written campaign plan.
Develop a complete media analysis of your district – both media outlets in your district and those outside of your district that reach your voters.
Start a process to target key precincts in your district for maximum organizational effort and the most effect use of resources.
Determine everything that may share the ballot with your race including other candidates, other races of importance, initiatives, referenda, bond issues and national and statewide races that may affect voter turnout in your district.
Campaign Organization
Assemble a small group of trusted volunteers to help you begin the campaign.
Determine where and when you will open your campaign office based upon the campaign plan, budget and finances.
Work together as a team to develop a network of key contacts throughout the district that you can use to raise money, organize volunteer activities and meet opinion leaders. Develop a key contact phone and address list and a set of corresponding 3 x 5 cards for the candidate to carry for fund-raising calls.
Designate a Campaign Steering Committee.
Determine the type of campaign management structure you need for your campaign and begin to assemble it.
Gather key sources of district information like: phone books; zip code books; listing of schools, colleges, and vocational centers; nursing homes, hospitals and libraries; major businesses and factories; and, neighborhood associations.
Develop a community calendar. Include meetings of organizations and clubs; Chambers of Commerce and small business groups; key community events, festivals, and sports events; functions at houses of worship and civic groups.
Obtain a minimum amount of campaign stationary, envelopes, contribution and volunteer cards. Desktop publishing software is essential in this regard.
Before you open your campaign office, investigate the needs for property insurance, phone service, heat, water, and power. Try to have as much of this donated as possible along with the office furniture and supplies in accordance with all campaign finance laws.
After the office opens, be sure to have a safe office routine that allows the office to be open and manned from 7AM to 10PM.
Communications
Compile a candidate photo file and gather photos from the candidate's childhood, military service, family photos and award presentations.
Develop a thorough media list including variations of key media contacts as well as a general list by country, city, and town.
Have volunteers clip stories on issues, political happenings and people central to your campaign.
Polish the speaking skills of the candidate and key campaign leaders and surrogates. Develop a preliminary stump speech for the candidate.
Create an issues file. Contact friendly officials and sympathetic organizations and ask for issue papers on key areas of interest to your voters.
Decide on an initial campaign theme and several central messages.
Put together a media kit. Set up meetings for the candidate to meet key members of the district media as time allows.
Finance
Define the role of the Campaign Treasurer and select one.
Pick a convenient and reliable bank and establish your campaign account.
Open a campaign post office box.
Determine, write down, and post the campaign procedures for receiving, processing, depositing and checking campaign contributions.
Establish, again in writing, a procedure for making campaign expenditures.
Work together to identify key donors and potential donors. Assemble a list of friends, relatives, social and business associates, former classmates and other prospects. Set up a method to solicit funds through one-on-one contact, personalized mailings and phone calls.
Build a potential donor file by collecting lists from previous campaigns and friendly elected officials. In most places, it is illegal to solicit funds from a list you get from the Federal Election Committee or state campaign regulatory agency.
Draw up a preliminary campaign budget based on your campaign plan for the first 90 days. Keep careful track of cash flow and produce weekly statements.
Create a campaign fund raising kit for your finance committee and for PACs. Build the case for why you will win the race. Remember that most "non-ideological" PACs will not give to challengers in a state or local race but if you don't ask, you won't get. Tailor and target your pitch carefully to the right audience.
These brief guidelines should give you enough of an overview to get your campaign off to a good start. To receive more in-depth candidate training materials, please call the Political Department at (202) 464-5170 or email us at info@gopac.org.
Campaign Start-Up Check List
Every campaign needs a beginning, middle and an end. The end is Election Day. The standard of measurement is simple – did you win or lose? The middle is characterized by the strategies, projects and tactics you use in pursuit of victory. But where and how do you begin? How do you reach that final decision to run? How do you fill in that first blank page of your campaign plan?
We have assembled this checklist to help you in the crucial start up phase of your campaign. It will also help you write your campaign plan.
Each section and each step is important. Think about these guidelines in the same way you must learn to think about your campaign: a series of tasks to be accomplished at the same time wherever and whenever possible. They are not an ironclad ordered document where point "A" must be complete before "B" can commence.
Personal
Talk with your family. The decision to run for any public office should not be taken lightly as it will impact your entire family. You and your family will be sacrificing an awful lot for you to run for office. On a piece of paper make two columns and write down the pluses and minuses of running for an elected office.
Legal Procedures
Know the exact procedures to declare you candidacy. These include: the exact paperwork required for filing; financial disclosure forms; certificate of candidate qualification; appointment of Campaign Treasurer; the payment of filing fees, petition fees, and petition signature requirements.
List all dates and deadlines for campaign filings and reports on a wall calendar. Include the absentee ballot information as well as primary, run-off and general elections dates.
Find out the procedure that dictates the order of the names on the ballot.
Does this procedure change from the primary election to the general election?
Obtain a copy of all the reports required to run for office as well as a schedule of when they are due and to whom they should be filed. This differs if it is a local, state, federal, or statewide race. For example: declaring a campaign committee; reports of campaign contributions and expenditures; campaign financial disclosure and the like. Take a moment to learn if any or all of these forms are available on line or in a software package.
Research the laws that govern your campaign. Learn the fundraising limits and procedures. What disclaimer requirements exist, if any, for printed materials, direct mail, radio and television advertisements? What are the absentee voting procedures? Where can political signs go?
Hire or obtain competent legal advice for your campaign. Real estate law differs from election law – make sure your counsel knows the difference.
Political Environment
Compile a district analysis and voter profile.
Collect maps of your district with precinct lines and legal boundaries. Also, detailed precinct maps, census maps, and street and road maps of all towns, cities, and counties.
Obtain voter lists. Find out the different format in which these lists are available. Have a plan for using the lists before you purchase or get them.
Ask specific questions to help you figure out what you need. Will you need primary voters? What about general election voters? Can you use voter lists compiled by previous phone banks?
Assemble Republican lists. Get the list of GOP national, state and local convention delegates. Who are the district wide Republican elected officials? Who are the county and local Republican Party officials? Where are the campaign staffers, key volunteers and steering committee members from previous GOP campaigns?
Analyze your district's voter history. What are the voter registration figures, if they are available? Get the list of registered voters by party, if available; past election results by precinct; past election voter registration numbers.
Assemble detailed background information on all other candidates. Interview your candidate; research his public record, research newspaper clippings, voting record, and community involvement.
Begin the process of developing an overall campaign strategy and written campaign plan.
Develop a complete media analysis of your district – both media outlets in your district and those outside of your district that reach your voters.
Start a process to target key precincts in your district for maximum organizational effort and the most effect use of resources.
Determine everything that may share the ballot with your race including other candidates, other races of importance, initiatives, referenda, bond issues and national and statewide races that may affect voter turnout in your district.
Campaign Organization
Assemble a small group of trusted volunteers to help you begin the campaign.
Determine where and when you will open your campaign office based upon the campaign plan, budget and finances.
Work together as a team to develop a network of key contacts throughout the district that you can use to raise money, organize volunteer activities and meet opinion leaders. Develop a key contact phone and address list and a set of corresponding 3 x 5 cards for the candidate to carry for fund-raising calls.
Designate a Campaign Steering Committee.
Determine the type of campaign management structure you need for your campaign and begin to assemble it.
Gather key sources of district information like: phone books; zip code books; listing of schools, colleges, and vocational centers; nursing homes, hospitals and libraries; major businesses and factories; and, neighborhood associations.
Develop a community calendar. Include meetings of organizations and clubs; Chambers of Commerce and small business groups; key community events, festivals, and sports events; functions at houses of worship and civic groups.
Obtain a minimum amount of campaign stationary, envelopes, contribution and volunteer cards. Desktop publishing software is essential in this regard.
Before you open your campaign office, investigate the needs for property insurance, phone service, heat, water, and power. Try to have as much of this donated as possible along with the office furniture and supplies in accordance with all campaign finance laws.
After the office opens, be sure to have a safe office routine that allows the office to be open and manned from 7AM to 10PM.
Communications
Compile a candidate photo file and gather photos from the candidate's childhood, military service, family photos and award presentations.
Develop a thorough media list including variations of key media contacts as well as a general list by country, city, and town.
Have volunteers clip stories on issues, political happenings and people central to your campaign.
Polish the speaking skills of the candidate and key campaign leaders and surrogates. Develop a preliminary stump speech for the candidate.
Create an issues file. Contact friendly officials and sympathetic organizations and ask for issue papers on key areas of interest to your voters.
Decide on an initial campaign theme and several central messages.
Put together a media kit. Set up meetings for the candidate to meet key members of the district media as time allows.
Finance
Define the role of the Campaign Treasurer and select one.
Pick a convenient and reliable bank and establish your campaign account.
Open a campaign post office box.
Determine, write down, and post the campaign procedures for receiving, processing, depositing and checking campaign contributions.
Establish, again in writing, a procedure for making campaign expenditures.
Work together to identify key donors and potential donors. Assemble a list of friends, relatives, social and business associates, former classmates and other prospects. Set up a method to solicit funds through one-on-one contact, personalized mailings and phone calls.
Build a potential donor file by collecting lists from previous campaigns and friendly elected officials. In most places, it is illegal to solicit funds from a list you get from the Federal Election Committee or state campaign regulatory agency.
Draw up a preliminary campaign budget based on your campaign plan for the first 90 days. Keep careful track of cash flow and produce weekly statements.
Create a campaign fund raising kit for your finance committee and for PACs. Build the case for why you will win the race. Remember that most "non-ideological" PACs will not give to challengers in a state or local race but if you don't ask, you won't get. Tailor and target your pitch carefully to the right audience.
These brief guidelines should give you enough of an overview to get your campaign off to a good start. To receive more in-depth candidate training materials, please call the Political Department at (202) 464-5170 or email us at info@gopac.org.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Oregon Republican League: History 104 Biographies
Every Wednesday, the Oregon Republican League will post the biographies of important figures, in the League's/State of Oregon's history. Feel free to comment or share stories of your family's Republican affiliation.
Governor Douglas McKay
Biographical Note
James Douglas McKay was Governor from January 10, 1949 to December 27, 1952.
McKay was born in Portland, Oregon on June 24, 1893. He was named after Sir James Douglas who succeeded Dr. John McLoughlin in 1845 as supervisor of the Hudson's Bay Company. Throughout his childhood McKay worked to help support his family. His father abandoned them, leaving his mother with little money. She found a job as a seamstress and McKay sold candy at a local theater. Later he delivered newspapers and drove a meat wagon which helped pay for his education at Oregon State College.
In 1917 McKay began his political career when he was elected Student Body President of Oregon State College. He also married Mabel Hill. McKay majored in agriculture the hope of one day owning a farm. World War I shattered his agrarian dream.
When the United States entered World War I, McKay enlisted in the army and was sent to Europe where he advanced to the rank of lieutenant. In December of 1918 he was injured by an exploding German shell. Shrapnel ripped open his leg and tore off part of his right arm and shoulder. For the rest of his life, McKay was 66 percent disabled. McKay was awarded the Purple Heart for the wounds he suffered.
Upon returning to Oregon, McKay lived with his wife and children in Portland where he sold insurance and worked as a car salesman. In 1927 he moved to Salem and purchased his own car dealership, which he called Douglas McKay Chevrolet. After living in Salem for five years, he was elected mayor.
In 1934, McKay was elected to the Oregon Senate. McKay was a moderate Republican. He was able to draw support from Democrats as well as Republicans. Perhaps this was due to the Democratic influence of his family. McKay once said, "My folks were Democrats. I come from a long line of Democrats, but I left home and learned how to read."
McKay was a State Senator until 1943. During his Senate career he was on the Roads and Highway Committee. He worked to tighten traffic regulations in the hope of making roads and streets safer. He especially focused on regulations relating to the safety and operation of school buses. McKay also sponsored legislation to lower interest rates on small loans.
McKay re-enlisted in the army during World War II and served at Camp Murray and Camp Adair. He was discharged at the end of the war as a major.
McKay's interest in politics was renewed in the late 1940's. With enormous local support he launched his campaign for governor with the slogan "You Can Count on Doug McKay." In 1948 he ran against Democrat Lew Wallace and won the election with 271,295 votes against 226,958.
As Governor, McKay supported the conservation of land and forests. He also supported employment for Oregonians. He advocated the cutting of old growth timber so that it would not hinder new growth. This policy also sustained jobs in the timber industry. McKay pushed for private ownership of land. He opposed the proposed Columbia Valley Authority because he was against federal ownership of Oregon's land. On September 11, 1952 McKay wrote, "The development of the Columbia Valley is a large project and the state must have the cooperation of the Federal Government to build the large, multi-purpose dams on the Columbia River, but I do not care to sell out my birthright for that assistance."
Significant legislation advocated by McKay during his term as Governor included: an act which would turn over 95 percent of the profits from the Liquor Control Commission to the general fund. The remainder of the profits went to cities in proportion to their population. As Governor, McKay continued the work he began during his legislative career to develop Oregon's highways. He supported a successful bond issue that gave $75,000,000 to the Highway Department. The bond raised $15,000,000 a year for the next five years.
McKay left the governorship in 1952 when President Eisenhower appointed him Secretary of the Interior. McKay's popularity dropped after accepting the appointment, because many felt he was abandoning his state for the federal government.
As Secretary of the Interior, McKay was nicknamed "The Old Car Peddler from Oregon." Upon arriving in Washington D.C., he took immediate action. McKay abolished five divisions of the Interior Department, dropped 4,000 workers, and cut the budget by nearly $200 million. He once remarked that the Interior Department has as many parts as a Chevrolet. He knew the car parts were essential, but wasn't too sure about the Interior's.
In 1956 McKay resigned from his post to run for United States Senator. He lost to the Democratic incumbent, Wayne Morse, by 61,444 votes. McKay retired from political life and the car business in the late 1950's. He spent his last years in Salem with his wife. McKay died on July 22, 1959 after an extended illness.
McKay is remembered for the time he devoted to his community. He was active in a number of community based organizations. Time magazine wrote of him in 1952: "He is short, jaunty, friendly, and folksy. He has a zest for people and politics, a talent for off-the-cuff oratory and off-the-cob jokes."
Governor Douglas McKay
Biographical Note
James Douglas McKay was Governor from January 10, 1949 to December 27, 1952.
McKay was born in Portland, Oregon on June 24, 1893. He was named after Sir James Douglas who succeeded Dr. John McLoughlin in 1845 as supervisor of the Hudson's Bay Company. Throughout his childhood McKay worked to help support his family. His father abandoned them, leaving his mother with little money. She found a job as a seamstress and McKay sold candy at a local theater. Later he delivered newspapers and drove a meat wagon which helped pay for his education at Oregon State College.
In 1917 McKay began his political career when he was elected Student Body President of Oregon State College. He also married Mabel Hill. McKay majored in agriculture the hope of one day owning a farm. World War I shattered his agrarian dream.
When the United States entered World War I, McKay enlisted in the army and was sent to Europe where he advanced to the rank of lieutenant. In December of 1918 he was injured by an exploding German shell. Shrapnel ripped open his leg and tore off part of his right arm and shoulder. For the rest of his life, McKay was 66 percent disabled. McKay was awarded the Purple Heart for the wounds he suffered.
Upon returning to Oregon, McKay lived with his wife and children in Portland where he sold insurance and worked as a car salesman. In 1927 he moved to Salem and purchased his own car dealership, which he called Douglas McKay Chevrolet. After living in Salem for five years, he was elected mayor.
In 1934, McKay was elected to the Oregon Senate. McKay was a moderate Republican. He was able to draw support from Democrats as well as Republicans. Perhaps this was due to the Democratic influence of his family. McKay once said, "My folks were Democrats. I come from a long line of Democrats, but I left home and learned how to read."
McKay was a State Senator until 1943. During his Senate career he was on the Roads and Highway Committee. He worked to tighten traffic regulations in the hope of making roads and streets safer. He especially focused on regulations relating to the safety and operation of school buses. McKay also sponsored legislation to lower interest rates on small loans.
McKay re-enlisted in the army during World War II and served at Camp Murray and Camp Adair. He was discharged at the end of the war as a major.
McKay's interest in politics was renewed in the late 1940's. With enormous local support he launched his campaign for governor with the slogan "You Can Count on Doug McKay." In 1948 he ran against Democrat Lew Wallace and won the election with 271,295 votes against 226,958.
As Governor, McKay supported the conservation of land and forests. He also supported employment for Oregonians. He advocated the cutting of old growth timber so that it would not hinder new growth. This policy also sustained jobs in the timber industry. McKay pushed for private ownership of land. He opposed the proposed Columbia Valley Authority because he was against federal ownership of Oregon's land. On September 11, 1952 McKay wrote, "The development of the Columbia Valley is a large project and the state must have the cooperation of the Federal Government to build the large, multi-purpose dams on the Columbia River, but I do not care to sell out my birthright for that assistance."
Significant legislation advocated by McKay during his term as Governor included: an act which would turn over 95 percent of the profits from the Liquor Control Commission to the general fund. The remainder of the profits went to cities in proportion to their population. As Governor, McKay continued the work he began during his legislative career to develop Oregon's highways. He supported a successful bond issue that gave $75,000,000 to the Highway Department. The bond raised $15,000,000 a year for the next five years.
McKay left the governorship in 1952 when President Eisenhower appointed him Secretary of the Interior. McKay's popularity dropped after accepting the appointment, because many felt he was abandoning his state for the federal government.
As Secretary of the Interior, McKay was nicknamed "The Old Car Peddler from Oregon." Upon arriving in Washington D.C., he took immediate action. McKay abolished five divisions of the Interior Department, dropped 4,000 workers, and cut the budget by nearly $200 million. He once remarked that the Interior Department has as many parts as a Chevrolet. He knew the car parts were essential, but wasn't too sure about the Interior's.
In 1956 McKay resigned from his post to run for United States Senator. He lost to the Democratic incumbent, Wayne Morse, by 61,444 votes. McKay retired from political life and the car business in the late 1950's. He spent his last years in Salem with his wife. McKay died on July 22, 1959 after an extended illness.
McKay is remembered for the time he devoted to his community. He was active in a number of community based organizations. Time magazine wrote of him in 1952: "He is short, jaunty, friendly, and folksy. He has a zest for people and politics, a talent for off-the-cuff oratory and off-the-cob jokes."
Thursday, March 01, 2007
DORCHESTER CONFERENCE: THIS WEEKEND
The Dorchester Conference: 2007 March 2nd – 4th, Seaside Oregon Convention Center
Where Politics is Fun
Every year, Republicans in Oregon gather together for a one-of-a-kind grassroots political conference – Dorchester. This year's conference, the 43rd, is shaping up to be a fantastic weekend filled with debate and camaraderie blended together in the unique way only found at Dorchester.
The 2007 conference will give Oregon Republicans a chance to gather together just months after the recent election to reflect, discuss and unite. The Dorchester Board believes that now, more than ever, Oregon Republicans need to come together – across various philosophies and ideologies – to debate, dialogue and HAVE FUN!
WHAT TO EXPECT AT DORCHESTER…
As always, Dorchester will be filled with lively discussion among delegates on a variety of current issues facing our state and nation. Meant to encourage dialogue across political ideology, issue debates at Dorchester give delegates the chance to learn from one another and vote as a conference on whether or not to support proposed resolutions. Sometimes the votes are close, sometimes they're lopsided…but the debate is never dull.
Once again the conference will include U.S. Senator Gordon Smith and Congressman Greg Walden, as well as many elected legislators and local officials. The speeches given by these leaders are always insightful, and the ability to interact with them in a casual atmosphere is an opportunity not often available outside of Dorchester, but at the conference, delegates can share their thoughts and ideas directly with political leaders.
And there is the infamous - and sometimes irreverent - Tent Show, which follows the Saturday evening banquet and festivities. For years, the Tent Show has kept Dorchester delegates laughing, and sometimes groaning, at jokes pointing fun at notable events from the past year and all sides of the political spectrum.
Delegates can expect a conference that will provoke thought, provide opportunities for networking, introduce them to new friends and reacquaint them with old friends, allow for some quality time on the scenic Oregon Coast, and make all who attend think about the future of Oregon politics and how Oregon can move forward.
Visit www.dorchester.org for more information.
HOW DO YOU REGISTER?
It's easy! You can register online at www.dorchester.org (you can submit the form electronically and pay with a credit card or you can print the form and mail it with a check). If you don't have web access, Dorchester can mail you a registration form. Those will be going out to past delegates by mid-January and the Board is always happy to add new, interested folks to their mailing list.
STUDENTS WELCOME!
There are discounted rates for students as well as internship (free registration in exchange for help at the conference) and scholarship opportunities.
Don't miss this great weekend - See you in Seaside!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
