Oregon Public Broadcasting

Two of the state’s leading Democrats have now staked out positions against building liquefied natural gas terminals in Oregon.

Secretary of State Bill Bradbury announced his opposition months ago. State Treasurer Randall Edwards joined him Tuesday.

Edwards is publicizing his opposition just days before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is expected to vote on an application for an LNG terminal on the Columbia River.

Randall Edwards: “LNG is not the choice for Oregon. That would put us in a situation where again, we are dependent upon foreign sources of energy. It’s a very volatile source. Oregon right now needs to continue to work on its strategy for being a leader in renewable energy.”

Governor Ted Kulongoski has said he wants state agencies to finish their permitting process before the feds weigh in.

The governor, Secretary Bradbury, and Treasurer Edwards make up the Oregon Land Board. That board could impede LNG, as state agencies could.

LNG company, Northern Star, says it has collected well over 1000 postcards in support of a terminal on the Columbia.