On the final stretch of their political campaigns, The Chronicle asked candidates to reflect on what they have learned from the community and what their closing promise to voters is ahead of the May 19 election.
State Senator 6th District: Serving four-year terms, senators represent larger regions (each district is roughly twice the size of a House district) and are responsible for reviewing House bills and confirming the Governor’s appointments to state boards. District 4 serves Central Lane County, including Eugene and Springfield, and District 6 covers rural Lane, including Creswell and Cottage Grove. Incumbent: Cedric Hayden (ineligible, 10 unexcused absences). Candidate Daniel Bahlen did not respond to requests for participation.
Nicole De Graff
Hometown: Grew up in Cottage Grove; born in Phoenix,AZ
Top priority in three words: To fix education!
One word to describe your leadership style: Pragmatic
One word to describe our community: Nostalgic
One word to describe you at your best: Thoughtful
One word to describe you at your worst: Overthinking
Favorite local landmark: the Castle
Biggest local asset: People and our small town businesses
Last local event you attended: Parade
A historical figure you admire: Deborah in the bible
During my time campaigning, I have learned that slowing down and listening is the best way to connect with folks. Many folks agree on the issues we are facing, and what people want most is for someone to look them in the eye and tell them that they know how to help. We can talk all day about problems, but real solutions take hard work. Platitudes don’t impress people.
At the end of the day, I can make promises with my words, but my integrity and record speak for themselves: I have fought with integrity for kids and families, and will continue to do the same in Salem. I promise to work hard to bring good policies. If it isn’t improving the lives of our community, I won’t vote for it
KC Huffman
Age: 28
Hometown: Sweet Home
Top priority: Healthy families and communities
One word to describe your leadership style: Service
One word to describe our community: Neighborly
One word to describe you at your best: Diligent
One word to describe you at your worst: Humble
Favorite local landmark: Weddle Bridge (and all our historic covered bridges)
Biggest local asset: The people! YOU are wonderful and worth fighting for!
Last local event you attended: Weekly church service
A historical figure you admire: Marie Curie
At the beginning of this year, I did not expect to be running for office. Like most of you, I was doing my best to get through each day: going to work, taking care of my family, and bracing for the next news cycle. Honestly, I was feeling more overwhelmed and powerless each day. I have learned in my life that the best antidote to this feeling is to turn outward, to find a way to help however I can, no matter how small. This year, I decided get more politically active. In my head, I thought this would mean attending a few meetings, maybe helping with an event or projects here and there. I ended up with a bit more than I expected!
Every day is a new learning experience. I am in awe of the excitement and support I have received from this community. During my campaign, I have been able to meet with many different individuals and groups, and I have been able to hear their concerns. Many, like myself, are concerned about their families, healthcare, jobs, childcare, and housing to name a few. Many of our community members are already involved in finding ways to address these concerns and to help their neighbors. For example, you! Reading this shows you are doing your part to be an informed voter this election season. Taking care of our community is a group effort, and by working together we remember how much power we really have.
As your senator, I promise I will listen to your concerns. I will fight for affordable healthcare, childcare, and housing. I will work together with our neighbors to make sure that the needs of our rural community are not only heard, but answered by the state.
