County Democrat Reader is the transparent e-think-tank of the Northwest regional Democratic Party. CDR amplifies voices and encourages hearty debate from contributors owning diverse experiences and perspectives on a variety of issues. Our hope is to facilitate greater understanding of shared social challenges, develop personal and group political opinion, foster accountability in institutions and elected officials, expose and protest wrong-doing, rally decision-makers, advocates and voters toward effective, pragmatic strategies for change. Democrats and non-Democrats are encouraged to submit responsible, fact-based, and reasoned articles for consideration. CDR does not publish on behalf of the Democratic Party of Multnomah County, nor do views shared here necessarily represent those of the Democratic Party from which it springs. CDR lifts and cultivates political voices to the national stage.