Statesman Journal: Kate Brown Speaks to Friendly Crowd at DemoForum

Statesman Journal
October 18, 2007
Steve Law

Candidate seeks to improve government efficiency
Kate Brown speaks to friendly crowd at DemoForum

Secretary of State candidate Kate Brown charmed local Democrats Wednesday in a campaign swing through Salem at Marion County Democrats' DemoForum.

The Portland state senator, who helped Democrats win majority control of that chamber, boasted of her legislative work promoting initiative reform, electronic reporting of campaign finances and redistricting.
"I'm delighted to be back in Salem, my home away from home," she told a crowd of several dozen activists.

Brown said she sees herself as a "friend of government," who will seek to use audits under her direction as a way to improve government efficiency. "I don't see this as 'How do I catch state workers doing something wrong,'" she said of the audits function.

Brown made no reference to fellow Senate Democrats also vying for the party's secretary of state nomination, Vicki Walker of Eugene and Brad Avakian of Portland. A fourth Senate Democrat, Rick Metsger of Welches, said he'll probably decide in early November whether to enter the crowded primary.

No Republicans have declared an intent to run, though Sen. Bruce Starr, R-Hillsboro, is considered a likely candidate.
Salem Democratic activist Patricia Williams said she was very impressed with Brown. "She was so knowledgeable and so forceful," Williams said.

Marion County Clerk Bill Burgess works closely with the secretary of state on election matters, so he's staying neutral in the race. But he touted Brown's skills.
"She's been a broker within the Legislature on these issues, an effective broker," Burgess said. "If you're trying to come to consensus on elections issues, she certainly has an appreciation for it and listens to all aspects."

slaw@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 399-6615