Andrew Aasen on running for Oregon 5th District, top issues, what’s going right
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — KOIN 6 News contacted candidates who are running for Oregon’s Fifth Congressional District in 2024, asking them to respond to these four questions:
Why are you running for office?
What is your prior government/civic experience?
In your opinion, what are the top three issues facing the Third District and the state of Oregon?
In your opinion, what is going right in the Third District and Oregon? How do you plan to build on it?
Andrew Aasen is unaffiliated with a political party. Here are his responses:
Why are you running for office?
Running for office is a deeply personal commitment rooted in a profound sense of duty and service to the community. My decision to enter the political arena stems from a sincere belief in the transformative power of effective governance and the imperative to address the pressing issues that impact every Oregonian.
At the forefront of our campaign lies the issue of homelessness, a complex and multifaceted challenge that demands urgent attention and decisive action. Recognizing the gravity of the crisis, our approach is comprehensive and multifaceted. We advocate for increased funding for homeless shelters and transitional housing programs to provide immediate relief to those without a home. Moreover, we understand the interconnected nature of homelessness with mental health and addiction, and therefore prioritize advocacy for support services aimed at addressing these underlying issues. Collaborating with local governments and nonprofit organizations, we strive to develop sustainable, long-term solutions through affordable housing initiatives that offer stability and dignity to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Additionally, we are committed to supporting our homeless veterans, ensuring they receive the care and support they rightfully deserve for their service to our nation.
Affordable housing is not merely a policy goal but a fundamental human right. Our vision encompasses a range of strategies aimed at making housing accessible and affordable for all Americans. From incentivizing investments in affordable housing construction to fostering public-private partnerships for expedited development, our plan is grounded in pragmatism and innovation. We advocate for policies that empower landlords to offer affordable rent options and explore alternative models such as community land trusts and cooperative housing. Furthermore, we recognize the critical role of zoning reform in expanding housing options and promote inclusive development in both urban and rural communities.
In today’s polarized political climate, the imperative for bipartisan cooperation has never been more pronounced. As a nonpartisan candidate, I am committed to transcending ideological divides and fostering a spirit of collaboration and compromise in Congress. This entails engaging in open and respectful dialogue with members of all political affiliations, prioritizing evidence-based policymaking, and upholding principles of transparency and accountability. By prioritizing the greater good over partisan interests, we can forge consensus on critical issues and deliver tangible results for our constituents.
Education stands as the cornerstone of our society, offering pathways to opportunity and empowerment for future generations. Our commitment to improving educational standards is unwavering, encompassing a multifaceted approach that addresses funding gaps, supports teacher development, promotes access to quality education, and prioritizes the needs of underserved communities. Through advocacy, partnership-building, and policy implementation, we seek to create a more equitable and inclusive educational system that empowers all students to realize their full potential.
Our campaign stands as a beacon of hope and unity, driven by a steadfast commitment to addressing the urgent challenges facing our communities. With your support, we can navigate the complexities of governance, bridge divides, and build a brighter future for all Oregonians. Together, we can turn vision into action and create lasting positive change for generations to come.
What is your prior government/civic experience?
Andrew Aasen’s distinguished background in government and civic engagement exemplifies a profound dedication to public service and community welfare. Currently serving as the director of zone 5 for the Deschutes County Soil and Water Conservation District, Andrew holds a pivotal role in advocating for the responsible stewardship of natural resources—an endeavor he approaches with wholehearted commitment. His tenure on various district boards reflects not only his extensive experience but also his unwavering dedication to fostering positive and collaborative change within the community.
Beyond his contributions at the local level, Andrew Aasen has also demonstrated leadership as an elected official, bringing a nuanced understanding of governance and policy formulation to the forefront. His vision for Congress is one centered on amplifying the voices of constituents, ensuring their concerns and aspirations are heard and addressed at the national level. Andrew’s approach to policymaking is characterized by a strategic focus on bridging divides, championing sustainable progress, and advancing initiatives that promote social welfare and economic equity.
Andrew Aasen’s multifaceted experience, coupled with his unwavering commitment to public service, positions him as a formidable advocate for the Fifth District. With a keen understanding of the intricacies of government and a track record of collaborative leadership, Andrew is poised to navigate the complex challenges facing the district and drive meaningful change on behalf of its residents in Congress.
In your opinion, what are the top three issues facing the Fifth District and the state of Oregon?
Environmental Sustainability and Climate Resilience: The Fifth District and Oregon as a whole are grappling with the urgent need to address environmental sustainability and build resilience in the face of climate change. The state has experienced increasingly severe wildfires, prolonged droughts, and disruptions to ecosystems, all of which threaten the health and well-being of residents, as well as the state’s economy, which relies heavily on agriculture, tourism, and natural resources. Transitioning to renewable energy sources, investing in infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as wildfires and water scarcity, and implementing policies to reduce carbon emissions are crucial steps in safeguarding Oregon’s environment and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
Economic Equity and Social Justice: Despite its reputation for progressivism, Oregon struggles with economic disparities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities within the Fifth District and statewide. Income inequality, lack of affordable housing, and inadequate access to healthcare are persistent challenges that hinder economic mobility and exacerbate social inequality. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes raising the minimum wage, implementing affordable housing initiatives, expanding healthcare coverage, and promoting equitable economic development. Additionally, investing in workforce training programs and supporting small businesses, particularly those owned by women, minorities, and veterans, can help create more inclusive and resilient local economies.
Education Reform and Access to Quality Education: Ensuring access to quality education for all Oregonians is essential for promoting social mobility and economic prosperity. However, the Fifth District and Oregon face significant challenges in this regard, including disparities in educational outcomes, inadequate funding for public schools, and inequities in access to educational resources. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive education reform efforts that prioritize equitable funding distribution, reduce class sizes, improve teacher recruitment and retention, and expand access to early childhood education and affordable higher education options. Additionally, addressing the digital divide and promoting digital literacy initiatives are crucial for preparing students for success in an increasingly technology-driven world.
By prioritizing these key issues and implementing evidence-based policies and initiatives, Oregon can work towards building a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for all its residents.
In your opinion, what is going right in the Fifth District and Oregon? How do you plan to build on it?
Oregonians are demonstrating remarkable unity and initiative in addressing critical issues and fostering positive transformations across our diverse communities. In Central Oregon, proactive measures are being taken to confront the challenge of food insecurity, with concerted efforts aimed at bolstering local agriculture and providing vital support to farmers grappling with the effects of persistent drought conditions. Furthermore, in the resilient communities of Santiam Canyon, where the scars of devastating wildfires still linger, steadfast endeavors are underway to not only aid in the ongoing recovery process but also to fortify community structures and enhance preparedness for future challenges.
Moreover, spanning the entirety of our district, there is a resounding consensus on the imperative of prioritizing education as the cornerstone of our collective future. From advocating for equitable access to resources for educators to ensuring that our students are equipped with the knowledge and skills essential for success in an ever-evolving world, there is a steadfast commitment to nurturing a generation of informed and empowered citizens poised to shape a brighter tomorrow.
Beyond the realm of education, our district stands united in its unwavering dedication to safeguarding fundamental rights and liberties. From protecting the sanctity of our natural environment to advocating for reproductive autonomy and defending the integrity of our democratic processes, there is a profound recognition of the interconnectedness of these issues and their profound impact on the fabric of our society.
In light of these shared values and aspirations, Andrew Aasen emerges as a beacon of leadership and advocacy, uniquely positioned to champion the interests and aspirations of our district on the national stage. With a proven track record of principled leadership and a steadfast commitment to collaborative problem-solving, Andrew Aasen embodies the spirit of unity and resilience that defines our great state of Oregon. Join us in endorsing Andrew Aasen for Congress and together, let us embark on a journey towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
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