Oregon Public Broadcasting

In the final days of a bruising campaign for the U.S. Senate in Oregon, the two major party candidates are focusing on just how big a majority Democrats will win.  

Republican incumbent Gordon Smith and Democratic challenger Jeff Merkley are touring the state making their last-minute pitches to voters.  Correspondent Chris Lehman reports.

Nationally, Democrats view Oregon’s Senate race as a key stepping stone to a filibuster-proof majority.

Gordon Smith toured a senior center in Salem, answering questions about Social Security and Medicare.  But he also repeated his warning against electing a second Democratic Senator to serve alongside Ron Wyden.

Gordon Smith:  “No party should have dominance with no brakes, no checks and balances.”

Across town, Jeff Merkley rallied local Democrats to make sure their friends and neighbors cast their ballot.  Merkley countered Smith’s argument, saying Oregon would be better off if both its Senators were Democrats.

Jeff Merkley:  “We need to have two Senators who are fighting for affordable, accessible health care for every American.”

Most polls are showing Merkley with a slight lead in the race.  But Republicans released their own poll this week showing Smith in front.