Community meets four state treasurer candidates

The four candidates for Oregon State Treasurer were in the hot seat Thursday . The public was encouraged to get the know them better at a forum hosted by the Deschutes County League of Women Voters.

Tobias Read is a democratic member of the Oregon House.

“I think I have that clear vision for the office, and a demonstrated record of accomplishments, as well as support from a variety of people, including the people that know the office best, the last three state treasures in Oregon,” he said.

Read snagged the endorsement of incumbent treasurer Ted Wheeler. He is also the House speaker pro tempore.

Chris Telfer of Bend is the independent candidate.

“I haven’t heard any plans yet, plans for the (public employee retirement system), for affordable housing, cannabis industry that can’t bank their money. So, I have that whole agenda of plans that I want to put into place, as soon as I take treasurer,” she said.

Telfer is a CPA, and a former Bend city councilor and state senator. She is currently on the Oregon Lottery Commission.

Jeff Gudman said his experience is what sets him apart. He’s held several treasurer positions already.

“I believe firmly that given the size of the investment that Oregon has, Oregon’s next treasurer should have experience as a treasurer,” he said.

Chris Henry represents the Pacific Green and progressive parties.

“I would like to see Oregon investing in and the money that is brought into the coffers of Oregon to be invested more locally,” he said during the forum.

Henry is a union truck driver and mechanic by trade.

Democrats have held the position 1992. According to recent reports, Read has a fundraising lead and has earned several key endorsements as of the May primary. The general election is Nov. 8 .