September 4, 2005

Look who really benefits

A recent editorial in The Oregonian argues that Portland "doesn't need" voter-owned elections ("Portland's voter-owned repeal," Aug. 28). But look at the roster of business groups lining up to back an initiative to repeal this sensible reform in Portland and you will get a real sense of who it is who "doesn't need" it. Remember, it puts voters, not donors, in control of who is elected.

The list of those backing repeal is a who's who of donors to Portland politics -- telecommunications companies, restaurants, developers. Under the new system, these special interests are afraid they'll lose the access they've always enjoyed at the expense of ordinary voters.

ANNE L. POTTER
Southwest Portland