Kotek and Drazan Debate as Oregon Governor Race Ties
Governor Tina Kotek and State Senator Christine Drazan debated in Eugene as recent polling shows the gubernatorial race essentially tied.
Democratic Governor Tina Kotek and Republican State Senator Christine Drazan participated in their only agreed-upon televised debate on October 1 at the University of Oregon in Eugene. Moderated by KVAL News journalist Kendall Bartley, the event was co-sponsored by the Oregon Journalism Project, Lookout Eugene-Springfield, KVAL News, and the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication.
The debate takes place nearly a month before the November 3 election. Recent polling from Oregon Public Broadcasting indicates the candidates are essentially tied, with Drazan holding a slight one-point lead within the margin of error. The data shows significant voter dissatisfaction, as 58% of respondents believe the state is moving in the wrong direction and Kotek maintains a 38% approval rating.
This contest is a rematch of a previous election between the two candidates. In that race, Drazan led in the polls but ultimately lost to Kotek by three points. Oregon has not elected a Republican governor since 1982.
