2006 Governors Races

Oregon CBS NEWS PROJECTS TED KULONGOSKIWINNER Democrat Ted Kulongoski (Incumbent) vs. Republican Ron Saxton A Republican has not been elected governor of Oregon since 1982, when Victor Atiyeh defeated Kulongonski 61 percent to 36 percent. There was some question as to who moderate Republicans and independents would vote for. That voting block was upset with Kulongoski because he backed an $800 million tax increase after pledging not to raise taxes to balance the budget. Saxton opposed the tax increase. The candidates had clear differences on the issues: Kulongoski feels the state needs a sales tax – another measure Saxton and fiscal conservatives oppose. Kulongoski also opposed a ban on same-sex marriage – something Saxton is in favor of. Saxton is in favor of abortion rights, but also favors a parental notification requirement. Kulongoski opposes the parental notification requirement. These measures do appeal to Kulongoski’s base – liberal Democrats.