With a year to go, the race to be Oregon's next governor is getting crowded. So we've decided to kick off our campaign coverage with an online get-to-know-the-candidates interview. We asked the same set of questions to each of the candidates who have either filed for the race with the Secretary of State's office or announced their intention to run.

As we get closer to November 2, 2010 we'll be following up with special election coverage. But here's a taste of what's to come:

• ALLEN ALLEY (R)
• BILL BRADBURY (D)
• MICHAEL HOTCHKISS (R)
  
• JOHN KITZHABER (D)
• ROGER OBRIST (D)
• JERRY WILSON
  

We haven't heard back from Chris Dudley (R) or John Lim (R), both of whom have announced that they're running for governor. We'll update this post when they send their responses.

In addition, we're keeping a list of former candidates here:

• STEPHEN SHIELDS (D)

ALLEN ALLEY

1. If the tax increases are voted down in the January election, what should lawmakers do to make up for the expected budget shortfall?
According to the National Association of State Budget Officers, 14 states increased spending this year despite the recession putting pressure on tax receipts. Oregon’s 13.9% increase was the second highest increase in the nation.

Between 2003 and 2007, Oregon government spending grew 37%.  In a state that prides itself on being sustainable, it is simply not sustainable to dramatically grow government while our economy shrinks.

There are some who say we will lose basic services if we do not raise taxes.  That is intellectually dishonest.  Oregon state government needs to do what families and businesses around Oregon have been doing for over a year now; prioritize spending and make ends meet.

If 48 other states can do more with less and Oregon cannot, then something is wrong.  We need leadership who can step up, set priorities and implement a responsible budget.

2. How would you describe the relationship you hope to foster with the legislature — and how would you foster it?
I already have shown how I am able to work across the aisle.   As a Republican, I spent 15 months very effectively working in a Democratic administration as Govvernor Kulongoski’s Deputy Chief of Staff.

What I found was that my background in international business was directly applicable.  I have spent many years working globally, building relationships and multi-million dollar businesses with people with whom you would think I have little in common.  What I found was that if I approach them with respect and make an honest attempt to understand their experiences and why they hold a different opinion, I could build a relationship of trust and respect.

Once we trust and respect each other I found we could collaborate and reach win-win agreements even when at first you would have thought there was no common ground.

3. What would you use the governor’s bully pulpit to champion?
We talk a lot about sustainability in Oregon but having one of the leading unemployment, homelessness and hunger rates in the nation is simply not sustainable.

• It is not sustainable that while Oregon has one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation – we are raising taxes.
• It is not sustainable that as the world sprints ahead of our educational system, our children are relegated to the intellectual bench.
• It is not sustainable that as we argue about enhancing our environment, our forests are tinderboxes and we continue to burn fossils as if the price will never rise and the flame will never extinguish.

It all starts with a job, even more than that a career (a job with a future). The Governor needs to make it clear the top priority is getting Oregon back to work.

4. How do you think historians will view Gov. Kulongoski’s tenure?
I worked with Governor Kulongoski.  Although we did not agree on every issue, we shared a passion for doing the right thing for Oregonians.  We differ in our views largely because our backgrounds are very different.

Although you may think he will be remembered for his promotion of green jobs, I think he will be most remembered for his passion for helping children.  I believe it comes from his own childhood experience of being an orphan.  He truly wants to do everything that he can to help out kids, because they cannot help themselves.  He used to say “We need to help the children get to the starting line of life, well prepared to take on the challenges of an uncertain future.”  And on this point we agree.

5. Were you voted “Most likely” to do anything in particular in high school? What was it? And what would most surprise your high school classmates about the person you’ve become?
I don’t think they would be that surprised.  I was an organizer, and a coach more than an individual star.  Whether it was organizing some of the best student events in the history of our school or being the leader of our soccer team without ever personally scoring a goal, I always focused on making the people around be the best they could be.  I enjoyed doing the jobs that nobody else wanted to do but were necessary.  I did the hardest things, the dirty jobs, because I knew they were the most important to do well.

Alley's website: http://www.allenalley.com/

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BILL BRADBURY

1. If the tax increases are voted down in the January election, what should lawmakers do to make up for the expected budget shortfall?
We need to work over the next few months to make sure this does not happen. That is why I am working hard to spread the word about the potential cuts and encouraging voters to pass Measures 66 & 67.

Measures 66 & 67 are reasonable, prudent and will preserve funding for education, basic services and public safety.

If Measures 66 & 67 were to fail, my hope is that lawmakers and the governor will protect education funding and vital safety-net services. This must be a priority for our state and is one for me in my campaign.

2. How would you describe the relationship you hope to foster with the legislature — and how would you foster it?
The governor and the legislature must become more collaborative. It is not for the governor to propose and the legislature to dispose on the budget and potential bills. The governor must bring in legislators from both parties early in the process.  The Governor must lead.  He or she must be involved throughout.

This collaborative process is how I have worked through out my career with great success.  My background as a State Senator and understanding of the legislative process will be helpful in this regard.  I will be mindful and respectful of both legislative chambers while working to pass meaningful legislation that will put people back to work, full fund education and protect our environment.   I know that with this type of approach our state can be governed effectively.

3. What would you use the governor’s bully pulpit to champion?
I will champion creating jobs for Oregon workers by transitioning to a sustainable economy and positioning Oregon as a leader in innovative growth industries like renewable energy.

I strongly believe that the future of Oregon and our economy is based on new economy industries like solar, wind and green construction. We are already a national leader in those areas and I will use the Governor’s bully pulpit to make us a worldwide leader.

Over the past four years I have given more than 200 presentations on Global Climate Change and its impact on Oregon. We are now at the point where by building a sustainable economy we can create jobs and help deal with the crisis.

4. How do you think historians will view Gov. Kulongoski’s tenure?
During the Governor Kulongoski’s tenure we began to take on the problems ignored by previous governors. For example Governor Kulongoski reformed the PERS system when previous governors would not. He also began the focus on creating a green and sustainable economy in Oregon.  A focus I will continue if elected Governor.

But what he might be best remembered for is the growth of Oregon’s State Park system. Under his tenure we’ve added at least one park every year.

5. Were you voted “Most likely” to do anything in particular in high school? What was it? And what would most surprise your high school classmates about the person you’ve become?
We did not have the category but I would have probable been voted most spirited. In school I was interested in covering the action as a reporter and photographer. I think my classmates would be surprised to see me become a part of the action itself.

Bradbury's website: http://bradbury2010.com/

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MICHAEL HOTCHKISS

1. If the tax increases are voted down in the January election, what should lawmakers do to make up for the expected budget shortfall?
As times have gotten tighter for the private sector, the government in Oregon has grown, without the forethought or putting in perspective that the funds would not be there as in a business. We have got to DECREASE our government spending. We’ today have more government employees then the private sector does. We cannot have this to survive, we need accountability in our government. I vote NO on 66 & 67, more taxes is not going to resolve what we have going on in Oregon anyway shape or form! WE NEED JOBS! Industry!

2. How would you describe the relationship you hope to foster with the legislature — and how would you foster it?
It would be BLACK & WHITE! FACTS! I’m tired of the malarkey in government! I want to work hard, listen and build on new relationships. I would listen to all that have valid points of interest, but that being said’  I would be on a mission to bring jobs back to Oregon, bring the people back together! My focus would be for Oregon and Oregon alone right now, we have got to look at our own bests interests as a state. We have got to start looking out for ourselves as a state, Us’ the people’ at the state level can make a difference today and that is where we have to start! This is why I have entered myself in this arena, Some of the short comings in this state are accountability. I would also push forward on forest management, we have a opportunity here at our finger tips for jobs and a healthy environment AND JOBS. We have left our forest in disarray, between Beatle kill/diseased & burnt forests, we should be embarrassed. This is where our school’s use to be funded and then lottery money that never really came through. I’m a firm believer in our schools and children.

3. What would you use the governor’s bully pulpit to champion?
TO MAKE A CHANGE! To make discussions for the people, not for my own fame or fortune! I would work hard and fast to turn Oregon around from this destination that is leading us bound for failure. I was born and raised in Oregon and have been watching it slip away, with that being said’ in time I see my family, job going away as well in time , because we are not on the path to recovery! These are serious times and we need serious people who love Oregon, love America. I’m here to make a stand! Not flex and bend! I will listen to serious people! People who care! I’m tired of the same old politicians. We need to push back on some environmental issues or concerns. We need to overturn bio-fuels in this state, we need to make it a option, not force it. Using bio-fuels costs US , the end user’s and business’s a lot as well as our children not making it to schools in the cold weeks, there is nothing gained by using bio-fuel THAT’S A FACT!

4. How do you think historians will view Gov. Kulongoski’s tenure?
NO ANSWER

5. Were you voted “Most likely” to do anything in particular in high school? What was it? And what would most surprise your high school classmates about the person you’ve become?
I was not voted most likely of anything, but I was a person that everyone knew! I enjoyed & love high school! I took a stand when needed, but would be remembered as one who really enjoyed it and had a lot of fun! I was one that stood back, analyzed then reacted.

JOHN KITZHABER

1. If the tax increases are voted down in the January election, what should lawmakers do to make up for the expected budget shortfall?
If the tax measures are voted down in the January election, I believe we will face deep and difficult cuts in our state budget.  I think it is extremely unlikely if the voters reject the tax increase that the Legislature will have the capacity to immediately replace it.  We shouldn’t kid ourselves.  Repeal of the tax increases will result in deep and harmful budget cuts.  It will require the Legislature to establish clear priorities among many worthy programs to preserve those that are core to the health and well-being of Oregon.

2. How would you describe the relationship you hope to foster with the legislature — and how would you foster it?
As during my previous two terms, my relationship with the Legislature would be open, engaged, and deeply involved.  When I was Governor between 1995 and 2003 I met regularly with the Legislative leadership of both parties and had regular meetings with the Senate and House Democratic caucuses.  I also visited the House and Senate Republican caucuses a number of times.  I do not believe that good public policy can be developed or that the state’s problems can effectively be addressed without active engagement between the Governor and the Legislature.

3. What would you use the governor’s bully pulpit to champion?
The first and foremost job of the next Governor is to lead in the transformation of Oregon’s economy to one that is more stable, less subject to the bloom and bust cycles that have characterized our past and that ensures job creation and improves per capita income in all regions of Oregon.  To do this, the Governor must also use the bully pulpit to make fundamental reforms in several major systems, including health care; education; energy; and public finance.  I will use my pulpit to lead system reform teams in all of these areas; always addressing policy actions through the lens of economic transformation.

4. How do you think historians will view Gov. Kulongoski’s tenure?
I believe historians will remember Governor Kulongoski as doing a good job in very difficult economic times.  He helped put Oregon on the map as a leader in renewable energy development and he will clearly be remembered as being extraordinarily supportive of Oregon troops sent abroad in defense of the nation’s interest.

5. Were you voted “Most likely” to do anything in particular in high school? What was it? And what would most surprise your high school classmates about the person you’ve become?
As I recall, I was not voted “most likely” to do anything in high school.  I was not a remarkable student, nor can I recall that I stood out in any significant way. I think some of my high school classmates would be most surprised that I actually finished high school and I doubt that any of them would have anticipated the political career which I have followed.

Kitzhaber's website: http://www.johnkitzhaber.com/

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ROGER OBRIST

1. If the tax increases are voted down in the January election, what should lawmakers do to make up for the expected budget shortfall?
I would look at the facts and figures before deciding what to do.

2. How would you describe the relationship you hope to foster with the legislature — and how would you foster it?
If elected, I would hope to work with the legislature in a constructive way.

3. What would you use the governor’s bully pulpit to champion?
One of the most important issues would be salmon recovery in the Columbia River and its tributaries.

4. How do you think historians will view Gov. Kulongoski’s tenure?
His time in office will be viewed as average.

5. Were you voted “Most likely” to do anything in particular in high school? What was it? And what would most surprise your high school classmates about the person you’ve become?
No. People would be surprised at the number of times I have been a candidate for public office.

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JERRY WILSON

1. If the tax increases are voted down in the January election, what should lawmakers do to make up for the expected budget shortfall?
The tax increases will not be approved.  Lawmakers will have to make the cuts required to balance the budget - a constitutional requirement.  Public employments will have to be reduced, programs eliminated.  Our constitution designates the Secretary of State to audit public agencies.  Kate Brown should already be on task with this and have recommend cuts to the legislature in January.  If history is a guide however, when governments are forced to cut back they typically don't cut waste, they cut essential services that make the public squawk.  Hopefully this won't be the case but if it is I'll step in to do my own audits and make the cuts myself.

2. How would you describe the relationship you hope to foster with the legislature — and how would you foster it?
I've already declared my intent to issue several Executive Orders if elected.  And my intent to jail the legislators if they don't provide the money for publicly financed elections.  I'd have to say we're off to a rocky start.

3. What would you use the governor’s bully pulpit to champion?
I have listed my campaign promises here: www.viva-la-revolucion.org - a state-owned bank to invest in infrastructure projects to get us back to work, pardons for victimless crime convictions (about half the prison population), publicly financed elections, legalization of hemp, single-payer legal for resolving disputes without cost to litigants, single-payer healthcare and empowering juries to judge the law.

4. How do you think historians will view Gov. Kulongoski’s tenure?
I'm getting sleepy just thinking about it.  Next question please. 

5. Were you voted “Most likely” to do anything in particular in high school? What was it? And what would most surprise your high school classmates about the person you’ve become?
The Commandant at my military school wrote to the Air Force when I was trying to get into fighter pilot school to say that I had very strong leadership characteristics but would never lead the troops in the direction he would want them to go.  Needless to say, a less mutinous officer was found to take the slot.  I don't think any of my classmates are surprised a bit.  Or so they tell me.

Wilson's website: http://www.viva-la-revolucion.org/

Note: While Jerry Wilson is not currently affiliated with a political party, according to the Oregonian's Jeff Mapes he will seek the Oregon Progressive Party's nomination.

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DROPPED OUT OF THE RACE:

STEPHEN SHIELDS

1. If the tax increases are voted down in the January election, what should lawmakers do to make up for the expected budget shortfall?
Oregon is faced with hard budget realities. If the tax measures fail, the difficulties get harder still. Lawmakers must redouble their efforts to stabilize with Oregon's tax system, which is one of the most volatile in the country. We oscillate between having more money than budgeted – which we return instead of saving for a rainy day – to having much less than required. The kicker refund further amplifies the system’s inherent instability and kills our ability to fund schools and operate our government effectively. That said, the larger problem is Oregon's unemployment which has been in the top ten for the past twelve years. We are facing a crisis. Our state government has a significant role to play getting Oregonians back to work in competitive jobs so we can support education and the other services we need. This is the single-most important issue facing the state.

2. How would you describe the relationship you hope to foster with the legislature — and how would you foster it?
The relationship I intend to develop with our state legislators will be based on trust, fueled by integrity and defined by a single word: collaborative. A relationship where we act quickly when we agree, work hard to find new possibilities when we disagree, and strive every day to make the pie bigger for all Oregonians. As governor, I will accelerate the legislature’s ability to make progress by leading the conversation about the vision and direction that drive our future prosperity. Oregonians largely agree on what is important, what we disagree on is how to accomplish it. But disagreement is no excuse for not making progress. That’s where leadership is required – finding new ways of solving the problems that threaten our future. That is hard work and it takes a willingness to listen to all sides, knowing the answer lies in the different points of view.

3. What would you use the governor’s bully pulpit to champion?
The bully pulpit creates a forum for leadership, and I will lead by creating more jobs and reinvesting in our education system. This great state is at a crossroads. We must get serious about how to prosper in the 21st century or risk our ability to protect all we cherish and believe possible. I intend to keep talking with Oregonians – throughout the campaign and throughout my term as governor. I am fond of saying ideas don’t solve problems, people do. I have seen great ideas go down in flames solely because people cannot move them forward. We do not lack ideas. We lack the alignment and commitment to turn ideas into action. That takes real leadership and ongoing conversation. I have the real-world experience as a problem solver and leader to tackle the hard issues and create a new economic reality for Oregon.

4. How do you think historians will view Gov. Kulongoski’s tenure?
Each leader brings unique strengths to an office. Governor Kulongoski is a dedicated public servant who has worked hard to govern the state well. Still, despite his earnest efforts, we have made insufficient progress on the big problems. There are times I would have taken more of a leadership role, particularly in engaging with the legislature. We have suffered from a lack of vision among our leaders and a shortage of meaningful interaction with the public over what is important. The more important question is where are we headed now? The next governor must be able to put Oregonians to work by building a new economic reality and reinvest in our future through an unwavering commitment to education. That is strength I possess that no recent governor has brought to the party.

5. Were you voted “Most likely” to do anything in particular in high school? What was it? And what would most surprise your high school classmates about the person you’ve become?
I don’t recall being voted “most likely” for anything as I graduated from Thurston High School in Springfield. If I was “most likely” to do something, it was that I was willing to do things others were not. I spent much of my junior year in Costa Rica as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange. At 16, I left my friends—along with my chance to play varsity basketball—to live in a foreign country where I didn’t speak the language. It was an extraordinary experience, and I even made the varsity team when I returned—though just barely. Perhaps my classmates might today be most surprised by my entry into politics. But the really big problems in our society must be solved in the political arena, and it’s not surprising to anyone who knows me well that if that’s where the challenge is, that’s where I’ll go.

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