Bradbury Says 'No More Excuses' - He Will Run for Oregon Governor

"It is time to stop making excuses" - Former Sec. of State Bill Bradbury

Photo courtesy: http://oregonspriorities.com/

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - Bill Bradbury says we all know the challenges Oregon faces: the need to fund education, create jobs, and protect our natural resources. He says while the challenges we face are daunting, he is excited about Oregon’s opportunities for a brighter future.

"I believe that we can rise once again to meet the challenges we face. But we can’t do so by relying on the work of past leaders, and we can’t do so by pushing off our troubles today to the next generation. Now is the time to start working on a new Oregon Story. We must fully fund education."

He says it is crucial that we support higher education and give community colleges the support they need to train the next generation of Oregonians.

"Some have given up on ever being able to achieve stable funding for education, but I have not. I have faith in Oregon and in Oregonians. I know that if we bring people together, we will find a solution. No great achievement has ever been reached in isolation. Stable funding for education will not be created in a vacuum or by a single individual or group, it can only happen with leadership from the Governor. I will provide that kind of leadership. Leadership that is not afraid to consider the controversial or the difficult."

Putting Oregon Back to Work

Bradbury says the economy of the future will be built on renewable energy. Oregon is poised to be leader in this new economy. The largest solar cell plant in the nation is located in Oregon. He says now is the time to foster this new industry, create energy independence and good jobs for working families.

He also says we have to protect the environment.

"I have spent the better part of my life advocating for stronger protections for our farm and forest lands. For our salmon and endangered species. Most recently I have taken on the climate change crisis."

"When former Vice President Al Gore called and asked for leaders to step up and speak out on global climate change, I answered that call. I have given more than 200 presentations about the global climate change crisis. I know we can solve that crisis, and I am proud of the work I have done with Al Gore. It is work that must be a part of the new Oregon Story."

"That is my vision for Oregon. Where we fully fund education, create good jobs, and protect the environment."

The former Secretary of State served Oregon in elected office for the past 30 years: in the House, as president of the State Senate and as Secretary of State.

"In 1982 I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis(MS) and have managed this disease my entire public life. If you’ve met me you may have noticed that my legs don’t work so well these days and I may not have much of a chance in the Portland Marathon, but MS has not affected the the strength of my spirit or my resolve to push through difficult times."

"This will be a campaign not won with millions of dollars in television ads, but in discussions in living rooms and union halls and neighborhoods across this state. It will be won with supporters like you talking to friends, family and neighbors about a new vision for Oregon."

He hopes Oregonians join in this effort to write a new Oregon Story. Bill Bradbury concluded by saying, "Only together will we create a better Oregon".