Send HB 2015 to the voters

In 1824, Thomas Jefferson wrote, “Men by their constitutions are naturally divided into two parties: 1. Those who fear and distrust the people, and wish to draw all powers from them into the hands of the higher classes. 2. Those who identify themselves with the people, have confidence in them, cherish and consider them as the most honest and safe, although not the most wise depositary of the public interests.

“In every country these two parties exist, and in every one where they are free to think, speak, and write, they will declare themselves.”

Where stands Oregon Senate President Peter Courtney?

Most of Courtney’s fellow Democratic lawmakers support House Bill 2015, which would grant driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants. This would overturn 2014’s Ballot Measure 88, with which Oregon voters defeated such licenses by a 2-to-1 ratio.

A recent Zogby Analytics poll showed that by 63% to 30%, voters continue to oppose illegal-immigrant driving privileges.

Courtney determines which bills reach his chamber’s floor. He should insist that if the Senate passes HB 2015, it be referred to the ballot for Oregonians’ vote. By doing so, he can show us where we Oregonians stand with him.