I was baffled reading the views of Delores Nims and Sal Edwards, who argued that state Sen. Jeff Golden should retire due to his age. However, I was delighted when Golden announced his candidacy for reelection to the Oregon Senate because he does a great job for us in Salem, and we need Golden’s experienced public service now more than ever.

Golden built a remarkable record of legislative success in two terms as our senator. His signature bill, SB 762, greatly helped reduce wildfire threats to communities and watersheds. Moreover, Golden led the only real effort for campaign finance reform in a generation. I am consistently impressed by the care and intelligence Golden devotes to the job, as evidenced by his regular issue discussions in newsletters.

Calls for “fresh blood” just because “things feel stale” are neither informed nor wise.

Senate District 3, which Golden represents, is one of the most contested in Oregon. Brad Hicks, the former Medford Chamber of Commerce CEO and likely Republican nominee, will be a strong candidate in November with ample money and organization. Matchups matter in elections, and Golden is the right Democrat to take on Hicks. 

I will vote for Jeff Golden again because he offers exactly what we want in Salem — a capable and thoughtful senator with a good sense of what Oregon needs to move forward.

Jay Lininger

Ashland

Jay Lininger is the CEO of Pyrolysis LLC, an Oregon corporation.