DiLorenzo for Governor?
Kari Chisholm
The Oregonian's Harry Esteve reported on Tuesday that prominent lobbyist John DiLorenzo is considering running for Governor as an independent. It's all the more strange because DiLorenzo has often represented Republicans as an attorney.
"I understand that 'lobbyist' is kind of a pejorative term," DiLorenzo said. "But what we have missed in our governors are governors with lobby skills, being able to reach out and pull both sides together."
Getting on the ballot would require signatures of 18,000 registered voters by August, a task DiLorenzo said he could accomplish.
Reaction to DiLorenzo's interest in the race ranged from shocked surprise to rhetorical eye-rolling. DiLorenzo, a lawyer at Davis Wright Tremaine, is considered one of Oregon's' deepest political insiders but rarely, if ever, viewed as a potential candidate.
DiLorenzo's been thinking about career shifts for a while. Last fall, he told the Oregonian: "I'm about to turn 55, and I have gotten to a point in my career where I'm starting to think about doing things I believe in." (Which, of course, raises questions about which causes and candidates he's advocated for previously that he didn't believe in.)
While GOP chairman Bob Tiernan's reaction was dismissive, DPO executive director Trent Lutz noted that it's a sign that Republicans may not be happy with their choices of Dudley, Alley, Sizemore, and Lim:
"I don't think he'd enter the race lightly," Lutz said. "I'm guessing he's hearing from people in his community that they're not satisfied with the candidates."
Should make for an interesting summer.
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11:31 a.m.
Apr 28, '10
Now that Republicans are about to nominate one of the two pro-choice frontrunners for governor, of course we should have another pro-choice Republcian run as an Independent.
And this is certainly is a good year for a professional lobbyist to run. Unless you can get a Wall Street investment banker to run instead, of course.
I wonder if John's former client, Sid Leiken, had his mom do a poll on this for him?
12:04 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
rimshot... rimshot... rimshot...
2:16 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Now that Republicans are about to nominate one of the two pro-choice frontrunners for governor, of course we should have another pro-choice Republcian run as an Independent.
Because the ONLY thing that matters to America is abortion. Just curious, the GOP had total control of the USA for 6 years, and yet abortion is STILL legal. Funny. I would have thought they would have fixed that.
Maybe fixing it is not the issue, but keeping it an issue is. Nothing drives the right to the polls like them damn liberal baby killers....
7:12 a.m.
May 1, '10
John DiLorenzo is as solid a guy as you will find. His ethics and personal integrity are above reproach. I have often been dissapointed that elected office wasn't able to attract this state and country's best and brightest . It doesn't take a brain surgeon to understand why. Shame on you Jack No one has done more good things for the Oregon Republican party than the guy behind the scenes with the best rolodex in town ...John Dilorenzo. He not only has the 'juice' to make good things happen for this state he also has the vision and the work ethic. John Dilorenzo represents Oregon's best and brightest. If he were truly just going on an ego trip like Jack wrongfully implied he already has the resume of accomplishments to do it without running for Governor, and if his ego needed to be fed like that it's surpring he was happy (and very effective) working behind the scenes all of these years ... He has the
10:27 a.m.
May 1, '10
Alot of things are legal that aren't right. I would venture to say that the left is far more obsessed with killing their babies than any other single issue. I tend to agree with the belief that abortion is the the ultimate exploitation of women.
9:40 a.m.
May 2, '10
Michael, you mean like the fact that the US is now out of both Iraq and Afghanistan due to the democrats having complete control of the House, Senate and Presidency? Just kidding.....
See, like the extreme left, the extreme right does not actually have the power (thankfully) to fully enact some of their more divisive mantras.
4:05 p.m.
May 2, '10
The fact that they didn't fix it is testament to the fact that your initial premise is incorrect. Abortion is the be all end all issue of the left.
12:08 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Thank you Jack Roberts for reminding us of who you are and why voters are tired of partisan politics. Anyone that knows John, says he is honest, fair and has a brilliant way of bringing people together that have opposing views. John is the guy that started a recycling company when he was 17 years old and had 50 employees working for him and sold his first 10 shares of stock to Governor Tom McCall. At 17 years old John figured out a way to promote business and help the environment. John's character is like the Rock of Gibraltar. I hope he runs and I'm not alone.
1:12 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
At 17 years old John figured out a way to promote business and help the environment.
Whatever happened to that idealistic young kid?
What happened to make him remark, 38 years later, "I have gotten to a point in my career where I'm starting to think about doing things I believe in." ?
It's kind of sad, really.
1:42 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Well John's not 17 anymore and this is all about ego. It is hard enough for serious candidates to run serious campaigns in today's economic and poltical climate without cluttering the ballot with vanity campaigns, whether it's Bill Sizemore or John Dilorenzo.
7:15 a.m.
May 1, '10
I can't believe you would use his name in the same breath as Bill Sizemore and attempt to imply their candidacies would have anything at all in common. Shame on you Jack. You couildn't carry his coat
10:32 a.m.
May 1, '10
I agree with Cameron Jack. Calling Johns possible campaign for Governor as a "vanity" campaign on the level of Bill Sizemores (who I personally see as being more of a victim of Big Labor silencing any dissenting viewpoints with the complicity of the courts than a racketeer..a belief that trou8bles me greatly), serial campaign Comparing Johns possible campaign for governor is inaccurate, insulting and a cheap shot I thought you were above making especially against a man as rock solid as Dilo
12:53 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Based upon the people, causes, and corporations Mr. DiLorenzo supported over the past decade I would beg to differ with Ms. Johnson's statement. Actually I do hope he runs because it will make the race more entertaining and provide another barrier in the way of any of the current Republicans from winning.
10:35 a.m.
May 1, '10
so using your logic John an attorney who represented rapists and murderers would never be able to run for public office either. Kind of silly, John attracted big name clients and causes because he has alot of clout and gets results.
1:20 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Sounds like a candidate ready to make the back cut in a tree. DiLorenzo seems to be sizing up the differences in thickness on each side of the tree to make the tree fall in a certain direction. If he can tap a wedge in just right all of the other Republican candidates may fall in directions they may not anticipate. Timber!
2:46 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
I'm surprised at the posts I have seen regarding John. He has been very involved in Oregon politics. He cares more about the people who are struggling through these adverse economic times then the candidates who are currently running. He is very honest and that’s something we do not see much of in politics these days. And whoever said this is just an ego boost must be a little out of touch. I’m reasonably sure John would take a huge pay cut to help the people of Oregon.
4:12 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
You should look up "ego" in the dictionary. It has nothing to do with making money. And to suggest that the candidates already running for governor don't care as much about the people who are struggling through these economic times and are less honest than John is very unfair and frankly insulting to them.
10:41 a.m.
May 1, '10
I can think of numerous reasons most of the candidates for Governor would have brought anything described as an insult on themselves. Especially Bradbury, I went to college with John and I don't have to suggest it I will say it. I don't think they are as honest and forthright as john... I keep flashing on the various very partisan things Bradbury has done as secretary of state here
4:38 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
I can imagine that the "doing things I can believe in" means as opposed to letting others do those things, rather than as opposed to doing things he did not believe in.
Doesn't sound bad...
4:56 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
I am thrilled with the idea of John running! As for the comment "I'm at a point in my life where I'm going to start doing something I believe in"... well, I'd say 99% of the population is guilty of sitting back and not doing what they believe in! John is one of the few coming forward to do something about it! John is not only a great person but also someone that WILL get things done! He has not only recognized some of Oregon's key problems but already has great solutions! He's 10 steps ahead of anyone else!!!
5:57 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Jack: Well John's not 17 anymore and this is all about ego. It is hard enough for serious candidates to run serious campaigns in today's economic and poltical climate without cluttering the ballot with vanity campaigns, whether it's Bill Sizemore or John Dilorenzo.
... or Chris Dudley for that matter. But he's still going to win the Republican nomination. Go figure.
I don't know DiLo very well, and I don't at all agree with his successful dismantling of Oregon's contribution limits in the 1990's, but he strikes me as an extremely intelligent and thoughtful advocate for his clients.
I'd love to see him debate Chris Dudley.
7:29 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Sal, I know you don't like the two party system, but if you're going to have a third party candidate don't you think he or she should at least offer something the two major party candidates don't?
It seems to me that if there is one thing we've had plenty of the last 10 years it's moderate Republicans who think they should start their political careers at the top.
2:48 a.m.
Apr 29, '10
Of course, starting a political career at the bottom is darn-near-impossible for a moderate Republican in Oregon.
At least running statewide, you can hope for some media attention that might save you.
Down at the state lege level, we've seen them all get ground down and out of the caucus.
5:54 a.m.
Apr 29, '10
I agree it's been getting tougher, Kari, but look at Scott Bruun in the 5th CD who is using his legislative seat as a launching pad for a congressional challenge. It wasn't too long ago we had people like Max Williams, Lane Shetterly and Rob Patridge in the legislature any of whom would (in my opinion) have been excellent statewide candidates.
Certainly I'm not denying that moderate Republicans have a challenge in the Republican Party today but I don't believe that's why so many of these candidates try to start at the top.
I especially don't think it justifies running as an independent just at the time it looks like the Republican nominee for governor is likely to be one of these moderate Republicans.
10:10 a.m.
May 3, '10
Sort of off-topic, but Scott Bruun is no moderate.
He's got a moderate rep, but you haven't been listening to him stump lately, have you?
9:43 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
As someone who has know John since i was a small child, i dont think ego is a word in Johns vocab. He is a extremely caring, and selfless person. Not only that, he is REAL. Something i believe we do not see enough of that in todays politics. Also, Jack, how about instead of trying to turn peoples words around, and personally make it your job to shut down everything someone says positive about DiLo, go fight a battle thats worth winning, because all your doing is making yourself look like an ass with a personal grudge. This is from a 20 year old, GROW UP.
9:59 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
I have absolutely no personal grudge against Dilorenzo, Joey, but as your dad can tell you, we haven't had a Republican governor since before you were born. Part of the reason is that we've become a party that's always pulling apart instead of pulling together.
10:19 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
It seems to me that if there is one thing we've had plenty of the last 10 years it's moderate Republicans who think they should start their political careers at the top.
No disagreement there, but are you talking about DiLo, Dudley, Alley, or all three of them?
For what it's worth, I think DiLo is considering this not out of ego, but to see whether there is public support for some of the ideas he's been kicking around that would not otherwise get any hearing at all. And he has some really interesting ideas, including the sales tax for universal health care concept.
That's the ideal role of a third party candidate.
10:34 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
Don't leave Ron Saxton out, Sal. I did say the last ten years.
I don't agree that the ideal role of a third party candidate is to support particular issues. Elections are to elect someone.
If Bill Sizemore were to win the primary, Dilorenzo's candidacy might make some sense. If, as I suspect, Allen or Dudley wins, then Dilorenzo's candidacy is just a spoiler.
Frankly, I'd understand it more if Allen or Dudley drew a conservative third party candidate into the race, although I hope that doesn't happen. But that would at least be a challenge based on principle.
10:56 p.m.
Apr 28, '10
So then Mr. Roberts, instead of pointing out problems with everyone and everything else, can you please explain to everyone what your personally doing to make big improvements in the community? Besides clocking more facebook hours than a sorority house laptop.
1:29 a.m.
Apr 29, '10
Joey, do you know who Jack Roberts is?
I don't agree with a lot of his politics, but given that Mr. Roberts has held both local and statewide office, and ran for governor, I don't think you should criticize him for inadequate civic engagement.
2:51 a.m.
Apr 29, '10
Um, Joey... Jack Roberts served as Labor Commissioner for eight years and ran for the Republican nomination for Governor in 2002.
He is currently the executive director of the Lane Metro Partnership.
8:43 a.m.
Apr 29, '10
I have to agree with Jack's statement that "we've become a party that's always pulling apart instead of together"... the only way we will get anything done is if we have someone in office that can work with all parties. John is the ONLY candidate that I feel could do this successfully! He is extremely well liked and respected by all. I think if everyone out there would truly look at what's best for the people of this state... which candidate has the support, the knowlegdge and the determination to make this state better... That single person is John.
10:20 a.m.
Apr 29, '10
I don't recall me asking what job titles Jack has held. I simply asked what he is doing right now to better our community. Also I did not criticize his Inadequate civic engagement. I just asked what his "civic engagement" is at this point in time. It strikes me as funny when Mr Roberts says, after criticizing John and trying to Put his own negative spin on his words, "we've beCome a party that's always pulling apart instead of pulling together". Way to take a step in the right direction. Actions speak louder than words, right? A political job title means nothing to me in a nation that presidents cheat on wives with interns, mayors smoke crack in hotels with prostitues, have sexual relationships with 14 year old babysitters, and buy college degrees online.
1:32 p.m.
Apr 29, '10
While I'm sure that Mr. DiLorenzo loves his children and never kicks his dog, defenders of an independent run in the general election will only wind up assuring a win for Kitzhaber....er, make that whichever imminently qualified Democrat winds up running against Chris Dudley's Money.......dang, did it again. I mean whichever imminently qualified Republican wins the primary.
7:24 a.m.
May 1, '10
I would like to see John launch Wyden out of his seat. And Jack you say that the republican party is always tearinmg apart ... what about John's record of service to this state would make you be part of that problem and not part of the answer. The biggest tragedy that will occur whether he runs or not is that we will be stuck with 4 more years of economic stagnation with a man who is a nice enough guy and who loves this Oregon but who does not have any of the answers this state needs right now. The definition of crazy is to do the same thing again and again and expect a different result. If Kitxhaber really loved this state and could put his ego aside then he would do the right thing and NOT RUN
7:56 a.m.
May 1, '10
The problem, Cameron, is that by unning as an independent, John Dilorenzo would ensure that John Kitzhaber is elected governor.
If Dilorenzo really wanted to be the alternative candidate, he should have run in the Republican primary. A race between Kitzhaber, Dilorenzo and either Dudley or Alley would make the Democratic party base virtually unbeatable.
Just as the late Ben Westlund realized in 2006, a third party candidate can only be spoiler. He won't be elected.
11:01 a.m.
May 1, '10
In the state of denial ..I mean Oregon Jack what chance do you think Allen would have against Kitz head to head? If there is virtually no chance for anyone but a recycled Litzhaber to win anyway then maybe it would be a great way for John to introduce himself to the rest of the state in order to posture himself for a run against Wyden or a really weak sister like Merkely will be? I don't know about anyone else but I see John as being more of a statesman than a day to day manager of the state.Not that he wouldn't do a great job but John is a deal maker and a heavy hitter and would be instantly effective for Oregon in Washington what do you think?
12:29 p.m.
May 1, '10
Roger, you are basically proving my point. You seem to be writing off this year's race for governor and encouraging Dilorenzo to run simply as a way to get his ideas out and lay the groundwork for a future campaign.
It's kind of odd having this discussion on a website dedicated to Democratic Party politics but I am tired of Republicans losing every gubernatorial campaign since 1982. Whatever one thinks of Alley and Dudley, they and their respective campaigns have worked to0 hard to earn a clean shot at Kitzhaber (or Bradbury)in November to have their efforts undermined by what I will again call essentially a "vanity" campaign.
4:21 p.m.
May 2, '10
Not surpringly the only blogs that link over from Oregon live seem to be all dedicated to the left. It's kind of like boxing or WWF wrestling ... you are saying that Allen and Dudley have earned their title shot and with that I don't disagree. But then again this is not just politics but politics in Oregon where things happen that don't always make sense. Where the one big city in the state which is as left wing as any in the nation call the dance and tune for the entire rest of the state who mostly aren't. I was hoping you would have put on a jimmy the greek hat and let us know your thoughts on the ability of any republican to stop what appears to be the unfortunate inevitability of another 4 years of rudderless leadership for this state. I think the vote will split very similar to the way it is on most votes between good and evil in this state. 54-46 ish. I mean Jack there are still people in this state who think the republicans are in the pocket of wall street and are to blame for the current financial mess we are in? Bringing fire to these natives is a slow and daunting task. JUst like college and professional athletic teams have players being developed and the groundwork and building of the team for next season if you believe like I do that Oregonians are really going to re-elect kitzhaber no matter how ineffective he was for the first 8 years ...then doesn't it make sense for the republicans to start looking at 2014 or creating the groundwork for a new up and comer with no name familiarity outside of the metro area for a possible senate run or for 2014 run for governor? I mean isn't this election for Governor really still a building year for the GOP?
12:25 p.m.
May 1, '10
His last name is Kitzhaber, and any politician willing to wrestle this bear (a 2.5 billion shortfall) after already being governor, is not doing it for personal satisfaction. He is doing it for the good of Oregon. I trust him at his word on that.
Full disclosure, I am a Kitzhaber supporter.
10:54 a.m.
May 1, '10
I think when you hear some of his ideas ...which he has the ability to actually pull off you may change your mind. There are alot of oregonians who can still remember the Kitzhaber years and if ever there was a time when a governor could have gotten some things done he had it. He has spent more years being a career politician as he has anything else, and while I appreciate his years of service Oregon needs to head in a new direction and not just a rehashed old version that didn't get this state postured for the bad times we are having today. I have seen that movie already and I know how it ends.
4:08 p.m.
Apr 29, '10
Jack - I don't dislike the two party system, but sometimes working within it is like trying to deal with divorced parents.
As to my support for quixotic candidates...
Don Quixote is part of my cultural heritage. There are many windmills that deserve to be tilted at.
5:52 p.m.
Apr 29, '10
I'm as blue as they come, but I know John and his honesty, integrity and ability to work with both sides of the aisle.
I thought his proposed health care plan was a good example of this:
http://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2010/01/unlink_insurance_from_employme.html
On a personal note, I have known him to be supportive of film legislation, which has provided employment for me and many in my industry, as well as those who work in restaurants, hotels, tourism, hardware stores, antique stores, clothing stores, rental car companies, accountants, electricians, drivers, payroll companies, lumber yards, etc., etc. In this economy, jobs are crucial to those of us in the middle class, and John was there to support us. Many of the jobs created, thanks to his support, are union, family-wage jobs with benefits, and affect the four corners of the state, not just Portland.
Moreover, he and his family were early supporters of a cause dear to my heart: victims of rape and war in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where millions have been massacred with almost no international attention. John's support has helped to shed light on the atrocities there, which many are hailing as Africa's first world war.
With 30-some years in politics, he is eminently more qualified than the Republican frontrunner. I am interested to see what he would bring to the table.
10:16 a.m.
May 3, '10
Yes, his idea for some sort of limited single-payer system is interesting. I'd like to hear more.
7:56 p.m.
May 4, '10
If I didn't know better, I would think DiLorenzo is being encouraged by some people in the republican establishment (and perhaps by some who have designs on Mahonia Hall themselves) to run as an independent in a year when Republicans have a better-than-average shot, even if Kitzhaber is the odds-on favorite against one of two moderate and definitely non-establishment republican candidates. DiLorenzo splits the vote as an independent spoiler and insures a democrat victory. Kitzhaber likely only serves one term. This way, an establishment republican candidate can run for governor in four years without facing an incumbent in the primary, or in the general.
That's a very dangerous game, and I can't picture a realistic scenario where DiLorenzo's name and the names of his encouragers won't be absolutely tarnished.