Dear Editor:

Too often, we see politicians talk down to their constituents, or worse, lash out when they don’t get their way. Ky Fireside is running for State Representative in Springfield and offers something rare: emotional maturity, calm attitude, and genuine respect for voters, even those who disagree.

When Flock Safety installed their surveillance cameras to track our daily movements, Ky met with the appropriate officials and lawmakers (who hadn’t bothered to research the company themselves). Ky testified in Salem before the Oregon Legislature and helped write legislation for use of surveillance technology. To achieve this, they stayed calm, made their case logically, and developed relationships with others in Salem. Their work and research helped us regain some privacy.

As a Starbucks union organizer, Ky navigated Labor Board filings, court appearances, and a well-funded anti-union campaign with steady persistence. They won a unanimous vote to unionize and get a voice at the table for workers by keeping their composure when things got hard.

Ky also backs affordable housing, universal health care, and human rights. Ky believes working class people should be able to own homes and that corporations don’t belong in the business of hoarding properties and then “providing housing” for a premium price.

But what truly sets them apart is Ky’s character: they’ll respect every voter, treat staff and fellow lawmakers with dignity, and behave like a true public servant. We need less drama and more grace in Salem.

Ky Fireside is ready to lead with maturity and courage and has my vote this May!

Marshall Curry,
Springfield