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Oregon GOP voters split on candidates but expect to unite behind nominee by November
OregonGDELTGDELT event4% biasedWed, May 20, 2026, 12:00 AM
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Oregon GOP voters split on candidates but expect to unite behind nominee by November PORTLAND, Ore.(KATU) — While Oregon remains a Democratic stronghold, the GOP primary is not a race to ignore—especially after Republican Christine Drazan came within just three-and-a-half percentage points of winning the governor’s race in 2022.KATU approached Republican voters across the Portland metropolitan area in hopes of understanding what issues are important to them when casting their vote for the Republican gubernatorial primary.We began with one simple question: What is the single largest factor influencing your vote for governor?“Education,” said Linda Neace, a precinct committee person.“Our kids can’t spell.” Others pointed to the rising cost of living in Oregon.“It’s just the affordability factor,” said GOP voter Lori Reacksecker.Former Republican State Representative Linda Flores Gordon echoed concerns about schools.“Number one: education is very important to me,” she said.Meanwhile, voter Mark Reacksecker said taxes are becoming too much for many Oregonians to handle.“We feel we’re overtaxed, and something has to be done,” he said.Many of the Republicans KATU spoke with said they feel Oregon residents are paying higher taxes without seeing improvements in return.Neace specifically criticized taxes and permit fees she believes have become excessive.“Taxing a paddle boat out on the water, a kayak out on the water—how ridiculous,” she said.“That should be something fun that people can go enjoy doing without having to buy a permit.” She also said economic pressures are forcing families to reconsider whether they can afford to remain in Oregon.“I’ve got two grandsons that work for different companies, and they are outsourcing,” Neace said.“One of them will be losing his job at the end of the summer.Now he has to reevaluate; does he stay in Oregon or does he leave?” Neace claimed that longtime workers nearing retirement are also struggling with affordability.“I have a daughter who is retiring, has been with Providence Hospital for 32 years.She can’t afford to stay here,” she said.Flores Gordon said frustrations surrounding taxes are not limited to Republicans.“At least when it comes to taxes, I’m seeing Democrats share in the sentiment too,” she said, referencing past opposition to proposed gas tax increases.She also said that in her capacity as former Republican state representative and current secreter for Clackamas County Republican Party, she has seen dozens of voters asking to switch their party affiliation from Democrat to Republican this year.Still, not every Republican voter KATU spoke with is backing the same candidate in tonight’s primary election.But many said they are prepared to unite behind whoever wins the GOP nomination in hopes Republicans can compete strongly statewide this November.Ballots must be dropped off by 8 p.m.