Democrats For Steve

I've always been intrigued that Steve and I belong to different parties but share so many values. Whether it's education, the environment, the economy or health care, Steve has responsible, effective and intelligent ideas that will benefit ALL Oregonians. But what's even more important is that he has what it takes to get good ideas -- others' as well as his own-- enacted into law. Steve has boundless energy and passion for serving others, but he's not confrontational.  Steve is one of those rare people who not only makes good judgments but can persuade others to do the right thing simply by the power of his own example. He listens well. He welcomes all points of view, and thoughtfully considers them. He disagrees without being disagreeable, and he's a team player. He's a man of character and honor. And he is very smart and creative. In short, he's the sort of person we too seldom see in politics.  It's been a long time since Wayne Morse and Tom McCall served Oregon. It's about time we had Steve Griffith in our legislature. And that's why I happily cross party lines to work for him.

- Nancie Potter

I have known Steve for 25 years as a mentee, colleague and friend.  He is principled and has deep integrity.  I begged him to run as a Democrat but support the person that he is. He is one of us.

- Ed Reeves

I have known Steve Griffith for over 20 years.  His integrity, citizenship and thoughtfulness are unparalleled.  He is, in many respects, a Tom McCall republican.

- Richard Alexander

I have known Steve Griffith for over 30 years.  He has an impeccable record of integrity, intelligence and hard work.  Steve has a rare ability to communicate and work with people from varied backgrounds and political leanings.  As a legislator, he would focus on the common good and avoid partisan bickering.  Steve would bring us together and work for the good of all Oregonians.   

- Susan Hammer

I am a true-blue Democrat.  I have never voted for, donated to, or otherwise supported a Republican candidate or cause.  But I support Steve Griffith.   Why?  Because I know Steve.  I worked with him for three years at his law firm, and we have remained friends after I moved on to other things.  When in need of advice on my career, a challenging legal issue, or a strategic decision on a complex matter, I go to Steve.  His counsel is always on point, and always confidential.  It’s reasonable to ask, however, how I can support a Republican when I disagree with so much that the Republican party has done, as it has moved further and further to the social right?  The answer is: I know Steve.  His values are similar to mine, and we agree on many of the issues that are most important to me, such as protecting the environment, supporting equality, and ensuring access to justice and a quality education for all Oregonians.  I also know something about Salem, having spent significant time there during the last legislative session.  I can say, without pause, that Steve has the intellect, judgment, compassion and experience to elevate the level of discourse in Salem, and he will get things done in a bipartisan manner.   He will bring people together, which is what this country needs.  The more people like Steve in the Legislature, whether Republican or Democrat, the better for Oregon.

- Matt Kalmanson

As a lifelong Democrat, I have been thoroughly impressed with Steve Griffith's  holistic and truly nonpartisan approach to the complex issues of governance.  He displays an inquistive and incisive mind, puts in extraordinary effort to understand the basis of issues, and makes his decisions unencumbered by political ties.  He is the best representative any district could have.

- Thomas Albert

Unfortunately, my husband and I do not live in Steve's district, but we truly would speak out for him to be chosen as a Representative.  Steve is a down to earth jubilant person.  When I first read his opening speech, I said I believed in wanting done the same things in my district.  He's so caring and just knows how to speak to children, and seems to know what to speak and when to speak and what to say at the right time to make them feel special, and not feel so down and not much.  Steve is a person that can mix and mingle with people and always be outspoken and caring, not showing partiality or favoritism.  He just knows how to make right and fair decisions and get the job done in different situations.  Steve's personality is what is needed in leadership.

- Willie and Bobbie Redford

Steve would be a fantastic legislator. His enthusiasm for good government and life in general is absolutely contagious. Oregon needs independent-minded leaders like Steve who can work constructively with both sides of the aisle.

- Ashley Henry

I have known Steve Griffith and his family for 30 years.  Of all of the people I have known in or out of public life, I can honestly say that Steve is one of the most thoughtful and dedicated individuals ever to raise his hand and ask to serve.  For Steve, service is what it is all about.  And he is a person who not only puts his money where his mouth is – he puts his heart, hands and considerable brain power to work as well. 

Steve does not just talk about good ideas, he takes action.  His entire life demonstrates his commitment to doing something about the issues we face,  rather than just sitting on the sidelines.  Whether that be teaching young men and women about the US Constitution or serving on boards and commissions to improve our communities and our world, Steve has always been ready, willing and able to work for the ideas and ideals in which he believes. 

Steve will approach work in the Oregon legislature with a sense of hope for what the future can bring.  He will reach out to all people and bring unity where divisions now hinder us.  He will do what he has always done, with deep conviction and humility.  He will serve. 

- Renee Bryant

I have known Steve for over 15 years, beginning when we overlapped as elected volunteer members of the Portland School Board for two terms. My husband, David, and I enthusiastically endorse him as a candidate for the State Legislature. He is intelligent, caring, incredibly hard-working and invested in the issues that are critical to Oregon. Whether it is about creating jobs, solving complex environmental problems, or supporting public education, Steve will tackle that issue with his great energy and will work with others in constructing effective solutions. Steve is about the most non-partisan person we know, since it is always his values and ethics that guide how he approaches an issue - not party politics. We continue to be impressed with how he seeks out diverse viewpoints to learn more about various challenges and we admire him as an excellent example of an involved, committed servant-citizen.

- Carol Turner

I have climbed South Sister, hiked around Mt Hood, and cycled across the United States with Steve Griffith.  He has a great appetite for life, deep integrity and loyalty, and a lifelong commitment to public service and progressive values.  He is a Republican who reminds us that the
Republican Party is the Party of Lincoln.  I am proud to call him a friend.  He is also the only Republican I have supported in a long, long time.

- Gregory Mowe

Steve Griffith is the only Republican I've ever voted for. While he shares my position on most issues, I'm voting for Steve out of my deep respect for him. I've never known anyone with as much intellectual and moral integrity as Steve, nor anyone more dedicated to thoughtful public service.

- Jeff Edmundson

I am a Democrat.  Steve is the only Republican I have ever supported.  I support Steve because of his integrity, independence and thoughtfulness.
I believe Steve will bring a refreshing, issue-based and non-partisan approach to the Oregon house.

- Geoff Tichenor

I have known Steve Griffith for more than 33 years, and he has proven time and again to be one of the most thoughtful, generous, bright, kind, and hard-working people that you will ever meet.  Portland was lucky when he donated his time to serve on its school board; Oregon will be lucky if he earns this spot in the Legislature.  I'd literally trust my life to this man.

- Jack Bogdanski

Over the years, I have found myself in total agreement with Steve Griffith on many issues that matter to me and my family. When it comes to the
environment, the economy, or education, Steve's position and mine are identical. I whole-heartedly endorse Steve and have encouraged all my
Democrat friends to vote for him. I already have.

- M. Sami Khawaja

We endorse Steve Griffith for State Legislature because he is a true humanitarian, an ardent supporter of education, a brilliant lawyer, and a tireless proponent for the common good.  He is also a warm, kind person who excels at working with people with diverse opinions.

- Rick and Lois Rosenbaum

Steve and I agree on all of the issues that are important to me, including, example, the importance of education.  Add to that the fact that he is one of the most reasonable, fair minded and dedicated persons I know.  It has been many, many years since I have been able to say these things about a Republican in this State, although I am old enough to remember those days when I could do so.  If we had more people like Steve running for office, we would not have to think much about party affiliations.

- Howard Feuerstein