Who are the Jefferson County Democrats?
We are your neighbors. We are all colors, religions, and backgrounds. We span the income scale, from rich to poor and everyone in between. We are teachers, mechanics, mill works, retirees and small business owners. We are union members, entrepreneurs, farmers and tradesmen. We are young and we are old and everyone in between. We are your communityand together we are stronger!
We believe…
In the Declaration of Independence
”We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed…” Our national government was created to protect the rights of all Americans, now and into the future.
In equal opportunity for all
Every American, regardless of race, religion, gender, ethnic background or wealth deserves to be able to do all they are capable of doing. That we, as a nation, should prioritize providing a quality education to all, K-12, community college, and college. We need to invest in our people to secure a safe and prosperous future.
That climate change is real and human-caused
The reliance on fossil fuels poses a significant threat to both the USA and the world at large. We advocate for government initiatives that promote a swift transition to clean energy sources and the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Moreover, we advocate for the development of safe and efficient public transportation systems. By providing viable alternatives to fossil fuel consumption, we can mitigate the risk of future weather-related disasters.
The structure of your family is a personal choice
Who you marry, whether or not you want to, or if you should have children. These decisions are to be made within the family, not by politicians. Our community is made up a rich tapestry of families. These family loves each other and form the basic units of our community. Our mission is to strength families in every shape, color and form they exist in.
Taxation should be fair and based on the ability to pay
Those at the bottom of the income scale should pay a lower percentage of their income in taxes than the wealthy. We need to eliminate unnecessary tax breaks that only benefit the rich. In 1960, when we were building the freeway system and thousands of new schools to handle all the baby boomers, the highest tax bracket was over 70% for income above $200,000. Our economy was booming. Today, the richest Americans pay only 37%.
That protecting and restoring our natural environment is essential for our survival
We want to hand a world to our children and grandchildren that includes clean air, water and land. We value the wild places that are accessible to all of us because they are controlled by we, the people.
Every person and family in Jefferson County has a right to a safe place to live
Our community is only as strong and healthy as the people and families that live within it. A basic human right is shelter. We believe government has a role in promoting affordable housing for the working families in Jefferson County.
The United States of America is nation of immigrants, and we value the role immigrants play in our story.
We recognize the importance of immigrants to our economy and our way of life, especially in the agriculture industry that feeds us all. These immigrants bring with them rich cultural traditions and strong family values that make Jefferson County the special place it is.
In equality under the law. No one is above justice.
No criminal, no matter how powerful, should be above the law. That is what is meant by “the rule of law;” It is the idea of fairness that keeps our families confident they will have a fair shake. The rule of law is a cornerstone of a just and orderly society, ensuring fairness, accountability, and equality for all individuals. No matter how rich or powerful you are, the laws of the United States should treat you the same. Public defenders, district attorneys, and law enforcement are crucial for upholding the rule of law. They ensure justice, protect rights, and maintain the integrity of legal systems.
A modern system of roads and highways, bridges, airports and telecommunication networks are crucial to our economy and to our society.
In Central Oregon, infrastructure serves as the vital lifeline supporting the region’s economic vitality, enabling the smooth flow of commerce, tourism, and community connectivity. It means our elders can get to medical appointments and our young adults can work and build their future. Whether it’s well-maintained roads, modernized utilities, or enhanced digital networks, robust infrastructure lays the foundation for growth and prosperity in Central Oregon.
Every American citizen has the right to vote.
Limiting the influence of money in our political system. We believe in guaranteeing the right to vote to all Americans over the age of 18. Only when all of us can vote can we shape the government to ensure it upholds our rights and ensures the safety of our communities. While maintaining the sanctity of the vote, we believe in reducing the barriers for citizens to have their voices heard.
We, the Jefferson County Democrats, want our nation, state, and community to live up to the ideals upon which our country was founded. We recognize and cherish the diversity of people, geography and beliefs of our great nation. We are bound together by a love of freedom, tolerance and inclusion. We recognize that Americans hold different beliefs. We are committed to coming together and finding common ground.
We believe that the future calls for Americans to act together. Together, we can realize a sustainable future of freedom, safety, and vibrance.
Read our Bylaws