Protesters ‘Foreclose’ On Walden’s Bend Office

Nearly 100 rural Oregonians marched, chanted and waved their signs in downtown Bend Saturday, serving the office of Rep. Greg Walden, R-Ore., a “notice of foreclosure” for supporting colleague Paul Ryan’s proposed budget.Several counties across the state were represented, protesting Walden’s support of Rep. Paul Ryan’s budget, which they said would allocate over $700 billion for the military and cut billions to communities in need.

The rally-goers said in Deschutes County, Walden’s district saw more than 3,000 foreclosures in 2010, and unemployment stands at 14 percent.

Participants, some from well beyond Walden’s large 2nd District, also claimed Walden is out of touch and not addressing the needs of the community members.

“It’s incredible to be here with all these people,” said protester Cara Shufelt. “Looking around, you see signs that say Lincoln County, Crook County, Jefferson County, so the entire state is here today.”

“We all feel that Congressman Walden is now a problem for this whole state,” she said. “The decisions he is making are hurting this whole state, so it feels powerful to be a part of this.”

The rally started at the Bend-La Pine School Administration Building. Participants then marched down to Walden’s office.

Residents also took turns speaking and sharing why they think Walden’s positions have hurt the state.