State of Oregon Archives: on War & Peace


Jeff Merkley: Opposed Iraq war from the very beginning, against Party

When the candidates were asked where their stance differs from their own party's, Merkley mentioned having opposed the Iraq war from the very beginning. When Smith challenged that assertion, Merkley shot back. "You know about that speech, yet you choose to mislead the citizens of this state," he said. "We are mired in war. We are mired in debt."
Source: 2008 Oregon Senate Debate reported by AP on KATU Oct 9, 2008

Jo Rae Perkins: Military force against nuclear proliferation and for Israel

Q: Should the United States use military force in order to prevent governments hostile to the U.S. from possessing a nuclear weapon?

A: Yes.

Q: Do you support increased American intervention in Middle Eastern conflicts beyond air support?

A: Yes.

Source: Vote Smart Oregon Congressional 2018 NPAT Nov 1, 2018

Mark Callahan: Iran nuclear deal endangers U.S. and our allies

I am fully against the Iran Nuclear Deal! Recently, Ron Wyden came out in support of the Iran Nuclear Deal. Senator Wyden's support of the Iran Nuclear Deal endangers not only the national security of the United States, but also our allies in the Middle East.
Source: 2016 Oregon Senate campaign website, CallahanForOregon.com Oct 9, 2015

Monica Wehby: Ensure that Iranian nukes don't threaten Israel

Monica also believes that the bond between the United States and Israel must remain rock solid. We must always stand by our strongest allies, especially in a region that is going through such turmoil. As the nuclear negotiations proceed with Iran we must be ever mindful that whatever deal is struck does not jeopardize the security of Israel.
Source: 2014 Ore. Senate campaign website, www.MonicaForOregon.com Mar 18, 2014

Paul Romero: All practicing Muslims support JIHAD

Q: What should the United States do to help eradicate the threat of radical Islamic terrorism?

A: All practicing Muslims support the five pillars of Islam. One of those pillars is JIHAD against the Infidel. Anyone not practicing Islam is considered an Infidel and should be put to death. Islam and Sharia is not complimentary [sic] to our Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Rule of Law, therefore it should not be allowed in America. Islam's ambition and stated goal is to rule the world at any and all costs, ridding the Earth of the Infidel. If a country chooses to be of Islam and Sharia, then that is where they should stay. Otherwise they should be met with force for removal and returned to the Islamic nation of their choice. The Jihadists of Islam do not value life, they value jihad. Americans of Judeo Christian values do value life and we do not have to tolerate evil in any form. We can defend ourselves, our family, the weak, and our property. The Bible tells us so.

Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2020 Oregon Senate race Nov 3, 2020

Christine Drazan: I Stand With Israel: end ongoing terrorism by Hamas

@ChristineDrazan on X: "My statement on the ongoing war in Israel. #IStandWithIsrael": Innocent women and children are being slaughtered and abused at the hands of extreme evil. The ongoing act of terrorism against the Israeli people is abhorrent and deserves universal condemnation. My prayers are with them as they seek to put an end to this terrorist organization that seeks to permanently destroy the Jewish people.
Source: Twitter posting on 2026 Oregon Gubernatorial race Oct 11, 2023

Christine Drazan: War in Iran is harming our state

Gov. Tina Kotek and state Sen. Christine Drazan, who served in the Oregon state Legislature at the same time, faced off at a business forum. The governor said foot traffic is up, safety is improving and violent crimes are down. "Is everything where we want it to be? No, but we have come a long way since the end of the pandemic, and if we keep moving forward, we will be successful," Kotek said.

When it comes to the Trump administration, both promised to do what was best for the state. "I'm asking to lead our state to the benefit of the citizens of this state, period. And there is no doubt that tariffs have harmed our state. There is no doubt that the war in Iran is harming our state today," Drazan said. "We need to have Oregon's voices heard. And I can tell you that no matter who is in the White House, I will always stand up for the state."

Kotek said she would work with any administration as well but not "get rolled over" by an administration that is doing things Oregonians don't want.

Source: Oregon Public (OPB, NPR News) on 2026 Oregon Governor race Sep 24, 2026

Christine Drazan: Iran cannot be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon

After the U.S. military struck three sites in Iran [last week], Portlanders who spoke with FOX 12 had mixed feelings about the U.S. becoming involved.

Oregon House Republican Leader Rep. Christine Drazan said: "Iran could not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. I'm thankful for our brave servicemen and women whose successful mission protected so many."

Source: Fox-12 (FOX News) on 2026 Oregon Gubernatorial race Jun 22, 2025

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