House Dems have strategy to keep GOP incumbents busy

In the race for control of the Oregon House of Representatives, Democrats have a strategy of keeping targeted incumbent Republicans busy (who will likely win their respective re-election campaigns) so they can move in on the toss up races to stiffen their majority by possibly two to five seats.  Majority Leader Dave Hunt has recruited strong candidates and raised enough money to keep GOP Reps. Chuck Burley and Linda Flores on their toes this election season.

Democrats recruited the youthful attorney Brent Barton to run against Flores in the Clackamas County district.  Barton focused on registering more Democrats in the district and raising a sizeable chunk of change from trial lawyers throughout the state.  Lobbyists and other insiders feel strongly that Flores will be successful in her re-election bid, however, Barton will keep Minority Leader Bruce Hanna and company focused on what should be a safe Republican seat and there is still a slight shot Barton could pull off one of the biggest upsets this year.

The race in Bend appears to be more of a sleeper race.  Burley's opponent, Democrat Judy Stiegler, has nowhere near the fundraising prowess Barton maintains, yet sources close to Hunt indicate the House Dem caucus is likely to bring considerable support in Stiegler's attempt to unseat the incumbent Republican.  Both parties are sending troops down to Bend to knock on doors and make harassing phone calls to voters until November.  Again, those watching from the sidelines do not expect an upset, but Republicans cannot afford to take that chance this political season.

Both House challenges are clear efforts by Democrats to re-direct GOP resources to incumbent protection rather than focusing on open seats or vulnerable Dems and Hunt still has over $1.1 million to up the ante in the next two months.