2020 Oregon Voter Scorecards
Grading Methodology:
A - F Grading scale: For the purposes of this grading scale, votes cast and direct action taken are weighted more heavily than public statements.
A = 2+ statements, actions, or votes in support of the core value
B = 1 statement, action, or vote in support of the core value
C = Conflicting statements, actions, or votes in support and opposition of core value
D = 1 statement in opposition
F = 2+ statements, actions, or votes in opposition (or 1 extreme instance)
Unknown = No information found
*Please note a Candidate is unable to earn an A in equity unless they have taken action in the past.
Why is this needed, important, or helpful?
Addresses Need for Consolidated Information
In the May 2020 local primary election, only 26% of eligible voters from ages 18-34 casted their vote. According to Youth Service America, 38% of voters aged 18-29 indicated they were not involved in politics. The #1 reason they didn’t cast a vote was, "too busy, conflicting work." In order to select a preferential candidate, voters must invest time sifting through the disaggregated information available online, and limited amount presented in the voter packets distributed by the government. Our Voter Scorecards break this barrier by distilling this information for voters.
Wider Scope than Other Voter Guides
Information is compiled on all local candidates, instead of only the more well known seats. This is especially needed because in smaller county elections and/or elections dominated by incumbents, information on opposing candidates is harder to find and occasionally requires contacting the representative themselves to learn their platform. Also, resources only rate candidates/compile information based on prior votes on legislation, which is not available for candidates who haven’t served in office before. In our research methodology, we consider candidate statements, candidate website platforms, related work experience, and social media content shared.
Comprehensive Candidate Research & Scorecards
Here you can find an in-depth outline of our research, each candidates scorecard breakdown, grading methodology, and additional resources we found meaningful. Please contact us with additional questions.