2026 Freedom Pledge — Additional Information from Candidates

"I support amending the constitution to reduce the right to bear arms. This is necessary because our founders could not have envisioned the lethality of today's firearms. In short, one person's right to bear arms should not supersede another person’s right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

While I support "real solutions" to homelessness, government based "short-term" and "long-term" housing is NOT a solution. A real, comprehensive solution starts with 2 years of pre-K education for every child, and ends with young adults who don't (and never will) need housing assistance. I am not against "short-term" and "long-term" housing programs. I am simply saying that they are mitigations, not solutions."

"I'm particularly happy to see what you've included on privacy rights! I very much support what you've listed."

“As a coalition candidate, I will govern with the people. Without the people, nothing. With the people, everything. Long be forgotten the era of politics that puts people last. An era that for decades has stolen people’s hope of prosperity for all, to only get crumbs. Anti-neoliberalism, progressivism, and left-wing nationalism are the core beliefs I have as a coalition candidate, as those beliefs are the only beliefs that include all, while advancing all. Following coalition values of; new form of leadership, the people first, and real progress, of which, will be our guiding values to how one should govern. A movement aiming for prosperity, a movement of the working class made possible by the people.”

"I would like to add that although I agree to the main tenants of this pledge, that it would behoove me to ensure that the State of Oregon will always try to work with the federal government in regards to the well being of all of its constituents."

"Nicole Bassett is a Hood River entrepreneur and systems-change leader running for Oregon State Senate District 26. After twenty years building businesses and creating local jobs, she's bringing financial discipline, rural perspective, and a proven track record of doing hard things to Salem."

"Although I agree generally with the statements in this pledge, the Oregon Judicial Code of Conduct provides that a judicial candidate shall not make any pledges or commitments with regards to matters that might come before them. None of my answers should be interpreted as prejudging any matters. As a trial judge, my decisions would be constrained by the Oregon and federal courts interpretation of applicable laws, not a pledge to the ACLU."

"I am proud to sign this pledge and pledge as I have done numerous times to uphold the constitution of the United States and Oregon!"

"Abolish ICE, Medicare for All (including abortion and gender-affirming care), Freedom of Speech, No Domestic Surveillance, Protect Vote-by-Mail and our Democracy, and Tax the Rich!"

"Working on the Immigrant Justice Package this past short session was incredibly important to my office because it was vitally important for my constituents and Oregonians in general. Working on the Law Enforcement Accountability and Visibility bill was also a huge honor and I'm proud that we were able to enact the first firewall in the nation between local jurisdictions and federal investigations that violate our civil liberties."

"My 22 years in uniform have taken me to places around the world where I saw firsthand what happens when governments stop protecting the rights of their own people. That experience made me fiercely committed to defending civil liberties here at home. I wore the uniform to protect our Constitution, and I take that oath seriously — especially the parts that require us to defend rights we might not personally exercise and protect speech we might not personally agree with. A County Commissioner makes decisions every day that affect people's fundamental freedoms, from land use and code enforcement to public meetings and access to government. I will bring the same discipline to protecting those rights that I brought to every mission in uniform."

"Regarding # 10 of the Pledge. I support the careful and responsible use of CCTV and facial recognition technology because, when used properly, they can significantly improve public safety in a very cost-effective way.

That said, I understand that these tools must never be used without strong safeguards. Any use should require clear limits on how and when the technology is used, and full transparency so the public knows what is being done and why.

Used responsibly, surveillance technology can help prevent crime and protect communities. Used carelessly, it risks eroding the very freedoms it is meant to protect. The key is getting that balance right."

"I wholeheartedly support the values in this pledge and look forward to exercising these values as a Washington County Commissioner"

"VOTE for Change, Leadership, Experience, Success, Education, and Common Sense. I'm asking you to vote for me and recruit five of your friends to vote for me. Thank you."

"I worked with ACLU on SB 1516 which worked to restrict mass surveillance use in Oregon."

"I am running to restore leadership, integrity and accountability to Clackamas County. Protecting and promoting the voices in our community, especially those that are being marginalized, is critical. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my values."

"I have been a card carrying member of the ACLU for a long time, I don't understand how any patriotic American would not be."

No additional comments or campaign page submitted.

"As a county commissioner, I’ve focused on practical solutions that expand access to services and treat people with dignity. That includes leading regional work on homelessness through prevention programs, shelter coordination, and stronger connections to mental health and crisis services. I also have served for many years on an affordable housing nonprofit board. In Polk County, we’ve emphasized keeping people housed when possible, improving navigation to care, and coordinating across cities, the county, and community partners.

I believe good government starts with transparency, accountability, and public trust. That means open decision-making, clear communication, and ensuring people can participate meaningfully in the process. I’m committed to protecting First Amendment rights and maintaining space for respectful public engagement, even when there are strong differences of opinion.

Throughout my public service, I’ve worked to reduce barriers to access, whether in housing, health services, or civic participation, so that everyone in our community can be served fairly. I’m proud to have earned the endorsement of Basic Rights Oregon and to have supported inclusive community efforts like recognizing Falls City Pride as an official annual city event during my time as mayor.

At the core, my approach is straightforward: treat all people with respect, focus on outcomes, and work collaboratively to serve the whole community. I support Oregon’s vote-by-mail system and support our County Clerk’s vital role of elections administration and transparency with the public.

I also support our growing immigrant communities and support our public safety partners’ fidelity to state law."

"As a Beaverton City Councilor, I have worked to protect immigrant communities and uphold civil liberties, particularly in response to federal overreach during Donald Trump’s presidency. I’ve supported community efforts like Migra Watch and helped organize an “Evening of Impact” with the Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition (PIRC), the ACLU of Oregon, and Centro Cultural.

I have also advanced policies to strengthen Beaverton’s sanctuary commitments, including developing an emergency declaration framework, codifying Oregon’s sanctuary law into city ordinance, improving protections around court-related information, and creating a framework for amicus briefs and civil rights litigation.

Additionally, I have submitted testimony supporting ACLU-backed legislation in the state legislature, including LEAVA (HB 4138)."

"Career wildland firefighter, owner of Big Bark Chipper Services, LLC, a wildland firefighting company, former Vice President of Sugar City Gleaners, Sweet Home Oregon."

"I enthusiastically support all 10 pillars of this Freedom Pledge. I am also running to support a highly rural and geographically large district, which has been underserved in almost every facet of county government service and response. West Lane County residents pay taxes, but have disproportionately less access to the programs those revenues support. I have heard from voters across the political spectrum that public safety should include emergency response that is timely, accountable, professional and responsive. Given the significant unmet need and unreliable outcomes, I support a combined approach that heavily emphasizes all of the components of Pillar #8 (Public and Community Safety), increases accountability and transparency, and ensures that crises and their need for intervention are not ignored in rural areas. It's time to finally serve all of West Lane, and we must increase our holistic commitment to safety and security in an uncertain and too-often disgraceful federal landscape. That is part of why I'm so glad to see Pillar #2 (Immigrant and Refugee Rights), and its focus on due process."

No comment or campaign website provided.

No comment or campaign website submitted.

"Although I agree generally with the statements in this pledge, the Oregon Judicial Code of Conduct provides that a judicial candidate shall not make any pledges or commitments with regards to matters that might come before them. None of my answers should be interpreted as prejudging any matters. For instance, in this case, the privacy pledge contains some broad statements that may or may not align with current case law regarding Article I, section 9 and the 4th Amendment. As a trial judge, my decisions would be constrained by the Oregon and federal courts interpretation of privacy rights, not a pledge to the ACLU."

"I have been fighting for fairness, justice, and equity my whole life. During my 25-year career in population health, my focus was access to health care and services and overcoming barriers to care, with the intent to invest in prevention and increase funding for basic human and social services. Those who suffered the greatest burden were often low-income and people of color. My work was health equity for all.

In Mississippi, I was actively involved in defending the last abortion clinic in the state (Jackson Women’s Health Center) including hosting activists from the National Organization of Women from California, who came to help with the fight. This was a multi-year battle. Ultimately, that same clinic was named in the case that overturned Roe v. Wade (Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Center).

I have received training to respond in the event of ICE activities to protect immigrants. So far, we haven’t experienced aggressive ICE activity in our area, but we are being proactive and know that could change at any time.

I have been an advocate for the homeless and those in need of mental health treatment. I believe that housing is a human right and people should have access to mental health and substance abuse treatment when that is warranted. I will work with the community to come up with better and creative solutions to get people housed and helped.

I am hosting a public showing of the documentary called Vigilantes, Inc., which reports on the planned attacks on voting rights in Fulton County, Georgia, in 2024. The film will be followed by a presentation by our Jackson County Clerk to discuss the work she and her team are doing to secure our local elections. My intention is to make people aware of the real threats and what they can do to protect their vote."

"Community first.
Equal rights for all.
Accountable government.
Constitutional freedoms."

"Regarding surveillance technology, I differentiate that section from general property management where we have recording and security technologies that I do not believe apply to your intended meaning of surveillance tech, and for which I do not intend to override the delegation of management to the COO."

No additional comments or campaign page submitted.

"As an oncology nurse, I am invested in the medical and mental wellbeing of all people. As a lifelong Oregonian, I am dedicated to the freedom and rights of our residents and to protecting our Country and our Constitution."

"As a family and pediatric nurse practitioner, educator, and social justice advocate, I have consistently worked to advance policies that protect health, dignity, and opportunity for all people in Oregon. Central to this work is a deep commitment to protecting and advancing human rights—the fundamental principle that every individual deserves safety, autonomy, and equitable access to the resources necessary to live a full and healthy life.

In 2026, I testified in support of Oregon Senate Bill 1570, affirming the importance of policies that safeguard access to healthcare and uphold the dignity and human rights of immigrant individuals and communities across our state. I also wrote testimony in support of House Bill 4088A (2026), further demonstrating my commitment to strengthening protections for fundamental human rights. HB 4088A expands Oregon’s shield laws, protecting healthcare professionals who provide abortion and gender-affirming care to out-of-state patients—ensuring that both patients and providers are protected in the exercise of essential healthcare.

My advocacy is grounded in the belief that public policy should reflect the lived realities of the communities it serves, particularly those who have been historically—and continue to be—marginalized. I approach this work with a focus on listening, elevating community voices, and ensuring that decision-makers understand the real-world impact of their choices.

I view the Freedom Pledge as aligned with this work—supporting the right of every individual to live with dignity, access essential resources, and be treated with fairness and respect. Protecting human rights means not only defending against harm, but actively creating the conditions in which all people can thrive. I remain committed to advancing policies that defend human rights, safeguard autonomy, and advance equity—ensuring every person can live with dignity and self-determination."

"Rural Organizing Project Board Member 2010-2014. As the Mayor of Monmouth, I signed the Inclusivity Resolution in 2017. Facilitated Know Your Rights workshops in 2011 & 2012"

"Proud to be an ACLU member and former intern at the Seattle office!

Thank you ACLU Oregon for this opportunity for candidates to highlight their commitment to freedom, democracy, our immigrant communities and more.

All of us are deeply impacted by the Trump administration’s daily attacks on community members: immigrants, low income neighbors, our trans friends and family and more. This administration has a goal: chip away at social safety nets, people’s ability to sustain hope, and destroy our democracy. The Washington County Commission must do everything in its power to fend off these intrusions, including defending and strengthening sanctuary policies, continuing to model fair and transparent vote-by-mail elections, and demonstrating what it means to invest in community building—creating spaces and programs that foster connection, resilience, and belonging.

I hope you will take the time to learn more about my values and priorities."

"As a first-generation Mexican-American and the daughter of farmworkers, my commitment to civil liberties is deeply personal. From being the first in my family to graduate high school and college to serving now as a county commissioner, has shaped my belief that our systems must work for everyone, not just a few. I understand how critical it is that our rights and freedoms are protected so that every person can live with dignity, opportunity, and belonging.

My work in public service has centered on advancing equity, supporting inclusive policies, and amplifying the voices of those too often left out of decision-making spaces. I ran for office with the intention of creating more equitable systems and ensuring that community voices are not only heard, but valued in shaping the decisions that impact their lives.

Signing the Freedom Pledge reflects both my lived experience and my ongoing commitment to protecting fundamental rights for all members of our community. To me, this pledge is a call to lead with intention, to stand up for civil liberties, and to continue building a future where everyone belongs."

"Unequivocally."

"I do believe that elective abortions after age of viability (around 24 weeks of gestation) should be limited."

"Oregon should deal with the reasons why Trump wants to occupy Oregon. Agents pulling people out of cars and body slamming them to the ground is unacceptable. Then after finding a US passport fleeing the science.
I am aware of the voters having the choice to end vote by mail. Vote by mail makes it easier for those who are forced to be homeless to vote."

"In general I support this part of the pledge. 'Homeless Rights: To support real solutions to homelessness like short-term and long-term housing, eviction support, supportive social services, and social safety nets, and to oppose criminalization policies that keep low-income people in harmful cycles of poverty and homelessness.'

I do not support a homeless person just being allowed to put a tent or move their car or RV next to a park or school or a home as they choose or want. If a homeless person is actively camping in front of one of my voters homes or apartments or business I will work with local authorities and service providers to ask/get the person to move.

With that caveat I do support 'Oregon law which requires that any city or county law regulating the acts of sitting, lying, sleeping, or keeping warm and dry outside on public property must be "objectively reasonable" based on the totality of the circumstances as applied to all stakeholders, including persons experiencing homelessness.'"

"As a Director of on the Redmond School District Board, I worked to get the Educational Equity Policy reinstated to its full and complete form and led the effort to formalize procedures in response to if/when ICE threatens the safety and wellbeing of our students, faculty, employees and greater community."

"https://www.linkedin.com/in/amilespalacios/"

"It is the sworn duty of all elected officials to defend the U.S. Constitution from all enemies, foreign and domestic. In 2026, those enemies are on our shores and not only violating the Constitution, but are flaunting their violations. We have to restore the power of the Constitution, and it is my belief that it starts with every candidate taking this freedom pledge and understand the solemn duty required to defend our Constitution. I gladly step up to do so."

"My work as a public health nurse, and later as a teacher, principal, and superintendent, aligns closely with the ACLU Freedom Pledge as it centered people’s rights, dignity, and equal access to opportunity in schools and access to public health . I support protecting constitutional rights, including free speech, worship, and choice, while also advancing practical policies that help all families, especially immigrants, thrive. My commitment to fair wages, affordable childcare, paid family leave, stable housing, food security, and reproductive freedom reflects the same principle that freedom should be real and accessible for everyone."

"I am a wife, a mother of six, and the daughter of immigrant parents from Lima, Peru, who came to this country determined to build a better life. I grew up in a working‑class coastal neighborhood in Boston, where my parents rebuilt their lives and careers. I loved growing up by the water—fishing from bridges, riding ferries and charter boats around the harbor, and spending so much time at the aquarium, it felt like a second home.

When I was eight, my father passed away, and everything changed. I watched my mother work multiple jobs to raise five children, including her role as a nutritionist for Suffolk County, where she taught families how to survive on a food‑stamp budget. Even with all her strength, years of disinvestment followed by rapid redevelopment pushed families like ours out. We eventually had to leave a community we loved because we could no longer afford to stay.

Those experiences taught me what it feels like when the cost of living rises faster than your paycheck, what it means to fight for stability, and how essential compassion and steady leadership are to strong communities. They also shaped my professional path. Throughout my career, I’ve secured and managed millions in federal, state, and philanthropic grants, built programs that support working families, and helped communities access the resources they need to thrive. I’ve worked across housing, juvenile probation, community development, and economic development, always focused on turning policies into real solutions for the people who rely on them."

"I am proud to sign the ACLU of Oregon's Freedom Pledge and to affirm my commitment to protecting civil liberties, civil rights, and democratic values in our state.

From attacks on reproductive freedom and immigrant rights to efforts to undermine voting access and the rule of law, fundamental rights and democratic norms are increasingly under threat at the national level, and state leadership matters more than ever. Oregon has long been a place where we step up to protect our communities when federal protections falter, and I'm committed to continuing that legacy.

My work in public service has consistently centered on equity, dignity, and community wellbeing. As a member of Albany's Public Safety Commission, I advocate for approaches to safety that prioritize prevention, investment, and care. I support alternatives to over-policing, such as mental health response, housing stability, and community-based services. I believe that true public safety comes from ensuring people have what they need to thrive.

Throughout my campaign, I have also been clear about my support for reproductive freedom, gender-affirming care, and the right of every person to make their own healthcare decisions without government interference. I am also committed to defending the rights of immigrants and refugees, protecting Oregon's sanctuary laws, and ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and given due process.

I strongly support voting rights and Oregon's vote-by-mail system, which has been a national model for accessible, secure elections. I will continue to oppose efforts that restrict access to the ballot or undermine trust in our democracy. I am also deeply committed to protecting First Amendment rights, including the right to protest and a free press, and in safeguarding privacy rights as technology continues to evolve.

In signing this pledge, I do so with a clear understanding of the responsibilities of the office I am seeking. If elected, I will use the authority of the role to advance policies that uphold these shared values while working collaboratively to ensure they are implemented effectively and equitably.

Oregonians deserve leadership grounded in fairness, transparency, and respect for fundamental rights, and I am committed to delivering it."

"I have long stood with the American Civil Liberties Union in defending the fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed to every American, and I share your commitment to justice, equity, and constitutional protections. Throughout my career and community work, I have consistently advocated for policies that protect civil liberties, expand access to justice, and ensure equal treatment under the law. I would be honored to earn your support as a candidate who will carry these values forward and partner with the ACLU to safeguard the rights of all people."

"I strongly support all of the issues listed in the ACLU of Oregon's Freedom Pledge and will always fight for the rights of Oregonians and all Americans."

No comment or campaign website shared.

"I worked for the City of Tacoma Housing Authority for 8 years in procurement under the Finance umbrella. I monitored the compliance of the agency's procurement policies and procedures, as well as conducted all asset management tracking and disposition in accordance with state and federal regulations. I performed other typical procurement functions, including executing RFPs and overseeing contracts. I have obtained certifications in Budget and Asset management

My procurement background also afforded me the pleasure to work in the healthcare field and IT based companies.

I volunteer within the community – Member of N2N, Meals for Neighbors – and deliver meals to immobile neighbors. I also take time to deliver meals and necessities to our houseless community.

In the past years, I participated in our local athletic community and coached my son's soccer team for four years. That was such a great experience."

"I believe in doing everything within my power to protect the rights of ALL those who call Oregon their home."

"Thanks for the work you do!"

"My campaign for Washington County Commissioner is about returning power to the people and dismantling the establishment pipeline. My vision is rooted in true land stewardship and community resilience, which aligns perfectly with the ACLU Freedom Pledge.

Protecting Our Land and Privacy Rights
I am leading the fight for a moratorium on unchecked data center expansion. These facilities are the physical infrastructure of mass data collection. We cannot allow corporations to consume massive public resources while operating without transparency or established privacy standards.

Ending Displacement and Decriminalizing Homelessness
True community safety comes from investment rather than policing. I strongly oppose criminalizing homelessness. My housing policy champions cooperative models and dense development so working families can build generational wealth and stay secure in their neighborhoods.

Putting Local Business First for Economic Equity
I will end massive tax breaks for large corporations and redirect those funds to local small business owners. This shifts economic power back to the people and supports racial justice by investing directly in our diverse community entrepreneurs.

Government by the People and First Amendment Rights
Decisions should not be made behind closed doors. I will ensure that everyday residents and marginalized voices have a seat at the table. I am deeply committed to defending First Amendment rights, constitutional due process, and a transparent democracy that protects the personal autonomy of all residents."

"I support the core principles behind the Freedom Pledge because they reflect something I believe deeply as both a resident and a candidate for Clackamas County Commissioner: government should respect people, not control them.

In my own work, I have consistently pushed for transparency, accountability, and fair treatment, whether that meant raising concerns about how public funds are managed, advocating for environmental responsibility, or helping ensure that community voices are actually heard in local decisions.

My support for this pledge comes from that same place. Rights matter most at the local level, where decisions directly affect people’s daily lives. Privacy, due process, equal protection, and the ability to speak freely are not abstract ideas, they are part of how trust is built between the public and those in office.

At the same time, I believe it is important to be clear that as a County Commissioner, my responsibility is to serve the entire community. That means listening to all sides, weighing real-world impacts, and making decisions that are practical, lawful, and grounded in the needs of Clackamas County residents.

I am signing onto this pledge based on my understanding that it reflects a commitment to civil liberties and responsible governance. I will continue to approach each issue independently, with a focus on transparency, balance, and the long-term well-being of the people I serve. Thank you for asking."

"Personal Freedoms and our Constitutional Rights are at the heart of my campaign. Both areas have suffered attacks under our current administration and, if not protected, will leave future generations with a country that dictates how they must live their lives. To restore our country's position as a leader in the free world we must embrace and celebrate our diversity, demand equality for all people regardless of race, religion, gender or sexual identity and strive for inclusivity rather than divisiveness. My fight is for the people and I proudly support the ACLU Freedom Pledge."

"I’m Running Because We Deserve Leaders Who Will Fight for Working Families!

Nilofar and I chose Washington County for its diversity, safety, and welcoming spirit. As we reflect on the community we want our children to inherit, I know we can do better. We deserve a county that is safe, inclusive, and full of economic opportunity. Achieving that vision requires courage, dedication, and imagination.

My experience as an attorney is a vital missing piece on the current board. My legal training ensures I will be ready on day one to navigate complex challenges and fight for our interests."

"I appreciate the ACLU, and I’m happy to align with the Freedom Pledge."

"I have had a great working relationship with ACLU of Oregon and look forward to continuing collaboration. Thank you for all you do."

"Thank you to ACLU for your work."

"I definitely support that government needs to be as transparent as possible, especially when dealing with surveillance and privacy issues. I also realize that there are levels to classified information clearances for a reason. I wouldn't want efforts to be transparent to endanger the lives of covert agents who are legally deployed."

"As a former board member for the ACLU Oregon, I'm excited to sign this pledge to ensure everyone's constitutional rights are being respected.

I've worked alongside the ACLU to ensure we are protecting Oregonians privacy rights and rights to due process. As federal attacks continue, we will need a strong legal framework to protect our way of life."