As the 2020 election season approaches, all eyes are on the race for the White House. However, it's important not to overlook the local elections that will also take place this year. In Clackamas County, Oregon, there are several upcoming elections for political leaders that will have a significant impact on the community.
The Role of Political Leaders in Clackamas County
Clackamas County is located in the northwestern part of Oregon and is home to over 400,000 residents. The county is governed by a five-member Board of County Commissioners, who are responsible for making decisions on issues such as land use, public safety, and budgeting.In addition to the Board of County Commissioners, there are also several other elected positions that play a crucial role in the county's government.
Political leaders in Clackamas County
are responsible for representing their constituents and making decisions that will benefit the community as a whole. They must have a deep understanding of the issues facing their county and be able to work collaboratively with other leaders to find solutions.Upcoming Elections in 2020
This year, there are several important elections taking place in Clackamas County. These include races for County Commissioner, Sheriff, and District Attorney.County Commissioner
The Board of County Commissioners is made up of five members, each representing a different district within the county. In 2020, two of these seats are up for election: Position 3 and Position 4.Position 3
is currently held by Martha Schrader, who has served on the board since 2011. Schrader is running for re-election and will face off against challenger Peter Winter.Winter is a former state representative and has been endorsed by several local organizations, including the Clackamas County Democrats.
Position 4
is currently held by Ken Humberston, who was appointed to the board in 2016. Humberston is also running for re-election and will face two challengers: Mark Shull and Pamela White. Shull is a retired Army officer and White is a former county employee.Sheriff
The Sheriff's Office in Clackamas County is responsible for providing law enforcement services to the county's unincorporated areas, as well as several cities within the county. The current Sheriff, Craig Roberts, has held the position since 2005 and is not seeking re-election. There are three candidates vying for the position of Sheriff: Angela Brandenburg, Joe Kast, and Brian Jensen. Brandenburg has over 20 years of experience in law enforcement and currently serves as a captain in the Sheriff's Office.Kast is a former police officer and currently works as a private investigator. Jensen is a retired police officer and has served as a reserve deputy with the Sheriff's Office.
District Attorney
The District Attorney's Office in Clackamas County is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases within the county. The current District Attorney, John Foote, has held the position since 2009 and is not seeking re-election. There are two candidates running for District Attorney: John Wentworth and Max Wall. Wentworth has over 30 years of experience as a prosecutor and currently serves as Chief Deputy District Attorney in Clackamas County.Wall is a criminal defense attorney and has served as a public defender in the county.
Why These Elections Matter
Local elections often have a more direct impact on our daily lives than national elections. The decisions made by political leaders in Clackamas County will affect everything from our taxes to our safety. It's important to research the candidates and their platforms to make an informed decision when casting your vote. Additionally, these elections are an opportunity for change and progress. New leaders bring new ideas and perspectives, which can lead to positive changes in the community.It's important for voters to consider the issues that are most important to them and choose candidates who align with their values.
Get Involved
If you live in Clackamas County, it's important to get involved in the upcoming elections. Attend candidate forums, research the candidates, and make sure you are registered to vote. Your voice matters and your vote can make a difference in shaping the future of your community.Conclusion
The upcoming elections for political leaders in Clackamas County, Oregon are an opportunity for residents to have a say in the direction of their community. From County Commissioners to Sheriff to District Attorney, these positions play a crucial role in shaping the policies and decisions that affect our daily lives.It's important for voters to educate themselves on the candidates and their platforms in order to make an informed decision at the polls.
