State Treasurer Candidates Plan Several Debates

Candidates for Oregon Treasurer are already doing their part to make sure their race doesn't get buried in the hoopla surrounding other elections.

Last week, the day after primary voting finished, Republican candidate Allen Alley challenged his Democratic opponent, Ben Westlund, to a series of five debates.

The challenge went out in a press release. Within hours, Westlund did him one better: a counter-challenge of ten debates.

Ben Westlund: "I have no problem with debates in any way shape or form. I think it's a good idea. But if you're going to do something that's important, then do it in a meaningful way!"

Westlund is a state legislator and former businessman from the Bend area. He says he's not making light of Alley's challenge, and even proposed the two carpool to the debates together, like Oregon politicians used to decades ago.

Alley gamely called Westlund to accept the ten-debate schedule. He's been a big player in Oregon's high-tech sector, as the co-founder of chip maker Pixelworks.

Allen Alley: "Part of it is just getting out and talking to folks. My reaction I've had from folks once I talk to them is that they're very interested, once they know what the role is."

Both candidates are proposing some common themes at this stage of the race -- like responsible management of the state's investments.

Westlund promises more help for residents who have unclaimed funds in the state's vault.

Alley says he'll draw on solid administrative experience if elected.

The two say they'll try to get together this week to firm up a debate schedule.