Westlund sets a solid goal for the future
By Larry Meyer
Argus Observer
Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:08 AM PDT
ONTARIO — Ben Westlund, 59, has served in the Oregon House and Senate, and while he found those years to be rewarding, he said he wanted to have a more direct impact on state policy in such areas as health care and education.
That’s why, Westlund said, he is running for Oregon treasurer against Republican Allen Alley in the November general election.
Westlund stopped in Ontario Saturday as part of a region-wide tour.
Westlund, who lives outside of Bend, said, if elected, he will be the first statewide official in Oregon from the east side of the Cascades in more than 30 years.
“I understand the value of natural resource-based economies,” he said.
He was co-founder of a mining operation in Christmas Valley, which produced diatomaceous earth. Later he purchased a ranch and turned a cattle operation into an international animal genetics business, breeding Hereford cattle. Presently, besides having served in the legislature, Westlund is a consultant, advising healthcare providers about increasing efficiency.
“I’ve conducted business all over the state,” he said.
Regarding policymaking procedures, Westlund said it is all about management of the state’s fiscal resources.
As an elected state official, Westlund said he would push for health care reform and work to create an Oregon health care fund.
“You get the (bully) pulpit,” Westlund said, as state official.
Citing his bout with cancer, Westlund said, “Every Oregonian should have access to the same health care that I received.”
Westlund touts his experience in the legislature and business.
“This is not a position for on-the-job training,” he said.
Westlund said his capacity to achieve success in the political arena should be a critical item for voters.
“I have the ability to get things done, Westlund said. “I have a proven track record.”
Westlund also said the state should focus on internal improvements.
“What this state needs is a major infrastructure investment,” Westlund said.
