“Democrats walked out because they continue to prioritize cap and trade over Oregonians”

Oregon Legislators from Klamath Falls provide statements on the early end of the 2020 short session.

Yesterday, Oregon Democrats abruptly ended the 2020 short session by closing the 2020 legislative session early. Effectively killing all budget bills, and the bills the short session was intended for. Cap and Trade will likely die in its current form as a result of the Republican boycott.

Klamath Falls News spoke with both Oregon Legislators from Klamath Falls, Senator Dennis Linthicum, and Representative E. Werner Reschke - below are their statements.

Senator Dennis Linthicum

“Democrats walked out because they continue to prioritize cap and trade over Oregonians.

“I work for the people of District 28 and protesting cap and trade by boycotting the session was exactly how I should represent my constituents because cap and trade is dead, for the second time.

“All we requested was that cap and trade should be referred to the ballot to let the people decide, and they refused.

“Democrats refused to negotiate in any meaningful way, instead behaving like schoolyard bullies, demanding my Republican colleagues and I play under their rules of predatory politics and patronage.”

Representative E. Werner Reschke

“I have been reminded of what it takes to be a good legislator: principles and courage. The past 11 days have certainly tested both of those characteristics.

“Right now is a bitter sweet moment.

“Republicans stood tall against Cap & Trade, protecting the communities we represent. It was wonderful to see those from southern Klamath & Lake counties rally in support of our effort. Republicans were ready to come back on Sunday, the last day of session, and finalize budgets for important projects statewide.

“However, Democrat leaders chose to end the session early in order to punish their political opponents over doing what was right for all Oregonians.”