Rosalie Pedroza, Candidate for Secretary

Background:
Born to a Republican family, I have to make this disclaimer, when I reached voting age, I voted for Richard Nixon. That was the last time I voted for a republican.

Until 1990, I voted in every election, large and small, as that was one thing my apolitical family taught me.

1990: I became involved with the political action arm of my union, talked to legislators for the first time in my life, and have been hooked ever since.

Thanks to long-time staunch supporters of the Democratic Party, like Judy Sugnet, Donald Beale, Lorene Lovretich, John Brown, Pat Gest, among numerous others in a county that is not exactly known for its progressive politics, I also became involved in the party. I have been a delegate to the State Central Committee since 1990. I am a Grassroots Democrat.

I have seen the Marion County Democrats grow from 15-20 faithful to 50-100 who attend our meetings. That is due to many people who have had enough of George Bush and have been willing to get involved to change things. We successfully made inroads in Marion County, by electing Brian Clem, and taking the first steps of releasing the strangle hold of the far right.

As a rural democrat who believed that I would see Marion County begin to shift be in my lifetime, through the Marion County Democrats, and Rural Organizing Project, I have found ways to reach out to my neighbors as never before, and organize around issues, not just parties, so we can begin to open people’s eyes to the extremes we are facing on the other side. I am also committed to taking back the message which has been dominated by republicans.

While I do have to admit, I have been disappointed in some of the stands our elected democratic leaders have taken, and I will always request accountability from them, I am committed to getting Democrats elected. I felt one way I could make a difference is getting involved at the state level. That is why I am running as secretary to the state party.

Since I personally hate receiving political phone calls and mail, I will not be calling or mailing you. However, if you have questions, please do not hesitate to call me at 503-743-4591 or email me at redped@earthlink.net . Thank you for your support.