Oregon's 4th Congressional District election, 2022 (May 17 Democratic primary)

Climate justice now! I am committed to: Passing the Green New Deal and building climate justice solutions that invest in Oregon-based clean energy production, transmission, and storage technologies. Using an equity lens in climate change mitigation solutions that invests more in jobs and economic development opportunities for rural communities, communities of color, and low-income communities. Passing a bicameral and bipartisan legislation strengthening Senator Merkley’s Wildfire Resilient Communities Act to address wildland fire management in certain at-risk communities that are at high risk from wildfire.

Democracy for all! Access to the ballot, taking money out of politics, and preventing conflicts of interest are crucial to reinvigorating our democracy. We need to protect the right to vote, stop gerrymandering, and limit corporate campaign contributions. I have successfully backed election reform measures such as ranked choice voting, which promotes the candidate with the most voter support. In Washington, I will: Champion federal vote-by-mail legislation, Ban stock trading by elected officials to ensure secure and easy access to the democratic process for all voters, and Pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act.

Healthcare is a human right! No family should have to declare bankruptcy because of illness or injury. Our dysfunctional system of private hospitals and insurers has left us poorly equipped for the global pandemic. I strongly support Medicare for All. As the board chair of the Corvallis School District, I passed a resolution that demands Congress and the Oregon legislature provide a universal form of healthcare. I am deeply committed to continuing this work. I will: Introduce an action plan to achieve a universal, affordable, high quality health care system in the country. Expand Medicare for all to cover mental health, hearing, vision, and dental care. Address the skyrocketing prescription drug prices.

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Andrew Kalloch (D)

When my spouse and I decided where to put down roots and start a family, the choice was clear: we were coming home to the South Willamette Valley where our kids are 5th generation residents. We feel lucky to have been able to come home. The hard truth is that so many parents and grandparents in SW Oregon watch their children and grandchildren leave and never return due to lack of economic opportunity or concerns about the state of our schools. As a father with three kids entering public school in the next 5 years, I am acutely aware of the challenges facing my generation and the next— from student debt and child care costs to education and the environment. I’m going to be a fighter in Congress for my kids and yours.

For the first time since 1986, the people of the 4th District have the opportunity to send a new leader to Congress. It’s a moment when the fabric of American democracy has frayed – a moment when politicians are more inclined to dish out red (or blue) meat to their political base than to reach across the aisle to solve collective problems with common sense solutions. I’m running as a member of a new generation of American leaders whose solemn calling is to rebuild our democracy from the ground up – one conversation at a time. What I care about is creating opportunities for your kids, identifying and implementing solutions that help address challenges in Oregon, & building strong, healthy, vibrant, and economically sustainable communities.

As a Millennial-- even a privileged one -- I couldn’t pay off my student loans until I was 35. In turn, I didn’t purchase a home until I was 36 and that was with family support. As as a parent of three, I face a $2500 child care bill on the first of every month. This is the experience of young people in America today and it’s a big reason why so many feel pessimistic about the state of the country and our ability to solve collective problems. I’ve worked my entire life— in the public, private, and advocacy arenas; in the courts, the legislatures, and the streets— to bring us closer to the true meaning of the American Dream: a country where all are equal and where everyone has the chance to make the most of their talents.

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We must end homelessness

We must provide 5-Star Healthcare with affordable scripts.

We must repurpose the federal government to include the IRS ending ALL taxes. See paradigm shift at KodelParty.us

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

You can't fix things you don't understand

John understands critical economic, social, scientific, and engineering framework of today's society

John is independent - he solves problems working across all lines to deliver practical real-world solutions.

Students should be empowered with the same opportunities for education, no matter where they live or who they are.

I understand how important education is to our communities. As an educator and school board chair, I have witnessed the growth and development of students from various backgrounds and with different needs and talents. I have been floored by teachers’ dedication to learning and to their profession. We need an immediate plan for educator retention that includes full funding for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) law, giving teachers and school workers fair pay, and reducing class sizes. We must invest in school infrastructure to increase student and teacher safety. I want to free our college graduates from the crushing debt of predatory student loans and advocate for opportunities for a free college education. I will continue working with my partners and supporters in public and higher education to:

Cancel student loan debt.

Invest in free community college for all.

Finally fully fund IDEA and hold school districts accountable to provide students with disabilities their right of a free and appropriate public education Ensure Title I funds are fully and appropriately allocated

Invest in school infrastructure to increase student and teacher safety.

Andrew Kalloch (D)

From housing, homelessness, and criminal justice to economic development, education, and the environment, I have worked extensively across many issue areas. I’ve also focused on national security and global business—two key issues for a Member of Congress— as a Partner of the Truman National Security Project and a member of Airbnb’s Global Public Policy team.

The truth is that leaders cannot effectively confront issues in a vacuum. We have to be able to “walk and chew gum” at the same time— to recognize that many challenges we face are the result of systemic failures of multiple institutions. For instance, homelessness is the product of not building enough housing, not committing enough resources to supportive services and affordability, and not providing adequate mental health and substance abuse treatment.

As a result, true and effective leadership requires seeing the whole picture and figuring out comprehensive solutions to collective problems. This means a willingness to experiment with new ideas, a recognition that one’s own ideas aren’t always (or even often!) the best ones, and a belief that leading requires listening to the needs and values of your neighbors and fellow citizens.

This isn't about me! That's how badly politics has morphed. This is about advocating for and representing constituents.

Whatever their top priorities are is what's important. Whether climate, Homelessness, crime, it has to come from them. That's why the send their representatives to Congress!

I have no agendas other than to serve as a keynote listener.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Climate change, Education, Natural resource management, Improved health care efficiency, Social Justice, Addiction/mental health/homelessness, Industry, Global relations.

Was anointed by Walt Disney when I was 5 or 6. RFK spoke at our community college just prior to his assassination.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Gandhi - solve one of the most intractable problems of humanity (colonization) without firing a single bullet. I believe we can solve almost every problems through peaceful means.

Roosevelt - pulled our country out of the depression and saved the world from despotic rule. I believe that leadership and faith in our community will deliver.

Obama - broke the race barrier at the highest level. Obama showed that skill and intelligence can triumph over all obstacles, and that we can have a a brighter more just future.

The West Wing is a good TV show that I have enjoyed very much. The optimism of the fictional character President Bartlet inspires me to look for best in America and bring the best out of its people and the government that serves them. His “integrity, quick witticisms, fierce intellect, and compassionate stoicism” inspired me.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

America the Beautiful Résumé to Serve by Steve William Laible, MBA, Dark Horse Candidate for Congress (Oregon's 4th District).

Available on Amazon as a fundraising tool in two versions: Full-color interior & black and white interior, priced separately.

Free with Kindle Unlimited

Belief in democracy! My love of democracy is fueled by my lived experience and what I have seen while living abroad. While living in Bahrain, I witnessed a series of anti-government protests in the 2011 uprising. I saw the lives of people I knew change overnight and it had a profound impact. I believe in the power of democracy as a supreme power that is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through elected officials. I believe that democracy has the ability to enhance the dignity of everyone.

Equity-focused. I am a passionate advocate for equity and inclusion. In 2018, as undocumented students around Oregon faced renewed threats of deportation, I spoke out in support of a resolution to protect students, faculty and staff who felt marginalized by the political climate. As a member of the Higher Education committee and an AFT (American Federation of Teachers) delegate in 2018, I voted in support of AFT Resolution 19 supporting sanctuary schools and campuses in Oregon. I spoke on the convention floor in support and, afterwards, the measure went to a vote and passed unanimously.

Service to community. I served as the board president of the Corvallis Multicultural Literacy Center, as a member of the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition’s Steering committee, and member of the Corvallis Public Schools Foundation. My community service focuses on education empowerment, economic and environmental resilience, and the empowerment of vulnerable populations. My leadership helped organizations to transform their operations and budgets. My work included supporting organizations with great missions that struggled in their operations to be effective, thriving, and sustainable.

Character Matters!

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

It is important to take a stand on my ethical perspective on governance from decades of experience in the USA, across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Post Trump requires us to remind ourselves of and recommit to these basic principles. The “do’s” of democracy can be summed up as honestly representing your community to make the best decisions possible to provide for their most promising future. But it is most important to be clear about the red-line “don’t’s:”

Democracy is founded on the goal to provide citizens the ability to effectively advocate for their desired social outcomes. To achieve this requires that information upon which they act is true, so that their decisions match their goals. From this we conclude:

1. Lying in order to influence citizens democratic engagement is objectively wrong (immoral and unethical), as it directly steals a citizen’s will in order that the liar gains the weight of those citizens to achieve the liar’s goals. 2. Misleading citizens so that they do not have accurate understanding of an issue, and causing them to change their position, is unethical and antithetical to a well-functioning democracy. 3. Vilifying others. Disagreement reflects differing perspectives and experiences, but does not indicate moral status. By attacking the person instead of their arguments, the ability to hear alternative perspectives is compromised, and so the ability to achieve a democratic compromise that balances diverse positions is lost. Ad Hominem attacks are intrinsically un-democratic. 4. Misrepresenting objectives. In a democracy people must understand the objectives of community members, they cannot develop a fair compromise solution that shares costs and benefits justly. For example, if I am to gain $1M from a decision, but only talk of some $10 rationale, this is unethical political discourse.

5. Hiding impacts of decisions. If a decision will impact a person of the community, it is unethical to hide this fact.

1. Respect. I can have conversations with political rivals, colleagues and community members who may be opposed to hmy views. I learned at a young age the importance of meeting and talking with others who have opposing views and finding common ground and understanding their unique point of view.

2. Belief in democracy. My love of democracy is fueled by my lived experience and what I have seen while living abroad. While living in Bahrain, I witnessed a series of anti-government protests in the 2011 uprising. I saw the lives of people I knew change overnight and it had a profound impact. I believe in the power of democracy as a supreme power that is vested in the people, and exercised by them directly or indirectly through elected officials. I believe that democracy has the ability to enhance the dignity of everyone.

3. Great Communicator In Sami’s community work he has clearly demonstrated his desire to build communication and connections between communities. Sami’s philosophy is that physical borders may exist, but it is the walls between communities that need to be bridged by open communication and tolerance.

4. Passionate Advocate One thing that is clear about Sami is that he is passionate about people. In 2015, Sami embarked on a cross country journey talking to citizens from Sacramento to NYC by train. As he listened to the stories, he was moved by their challenges, victories, and their willingness to share about their lives. This project ” gave him the opportunity to hone his impressive talent for listening to people by staying authentic, accepting other opinions, staying in the moment, and listening for clarity (not to respond). We will bring that advocacy to Congress

5. Problem Solver

Sami is a community leader and advocate that always looks for solutions to complex problems.

Honesty. Character. Integrity. Values. Civility.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

From my Quaker beliefs I put ethics, integrity and hard work as foundational elements. I have built an understanding of technology, science, business, and society which gives me a basis to weigh in and advocate for reality-based solutions to today's problems.

To play two roles: Delegate and Trustee.

Being a delegate bringing up the voice of the people to Congress.

Being a trustee voting and acting in the best interests of all people represented by this office and the best interests of the United States of America .

What legacy would you like to leave?

Keynote Listener!

Make things a little better than I found them and to work with people who care to do the same.

Founding architect, The Kodel Party for America the Beautiful with a truer paradigm shift in favor of the hard-working, middle-class majority. A legitimate 3rd major political party.

American Children's Author Stevie Tenderheart Books

(Bedtime Storybooks)

Helping to quiet the noises of the day, helping children feel silly, loved (safe & cozy) at bedtime.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Energy policy that provides for tomorrow's needs and halts CO2 emissions; educational policy that allows people to pursue their professional goals without mortgaging their futures.

Fourth of July of my birth year and Gulf War.

While in college, I was passing Tucson with the college solar vehicle team to a competition. I remember seeing the Sentinel Peak (commonly known as “A” Mountain) and get a flashback of a memory. I was with my parents watching fireworks in a parking lot near the letter ‘A’. I messaged my father inquiring that if such memory can be true knowing that we have left Tucson to Phoenix when I was a couple of years old and then to Saudi Arabia when I was six and never came back to Tucson. I learned that indeed it was the fireworks of Fourth of July when I was a three months years old toddler.

A few years later, about four years old, I remember seeing Wolf Blitzer on TV covering the Iraq War while we lived in Arizona away from our extended family. I remember my parents watching closely and my dad calling my extended family in the eastern side of Saudi Arabia which was under the targeting of Sadam Hussain. Later on, I got to learn that my grandfather would tell my father over the phone that ‘all is ok’ and ‘peace is prevailing here’ out of fear of speaking up about what is happening over the phone. In reality, my extended family were not ok. They would listen the war sirens go off on the TV channels accompanied with a red screen to prompt them to wear their gas masks when they were under threat of an approaching Iraqi missile. The anticipation would not clear until the screen turns green with an audible message in English saying ‘ALL CLEAR’. I remember my older cousins, aunts and uncles would remember these days and remember the relief the phrase ‘ALL CLEAR’ brought them.

5th grade, JFK assassination.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

When Martin Luther King was murdered I held my mother's hand while she wept inconsolably. I was 7 years old. That one man meant so much to my mother and that she went out to fight more vigorously than ever following his death taught me to care deeply, and never stop working for a better world. Our family was taught that it was up to us to solve problems, and that anything was possible with dedication, effort, and community. I have taken this forward, for instance, solving one of the greatest challenges in climate observation, but overseeing the installation and operation of weather stations in 23 African Countries (TAHMO.org). Someone had to do it, and why not me. John Selker understands that we urgently need someone to bring deep scientific and engineering insights to the operation of our government. To hell with the torpedos - Selker is ready to do this hard work.

My first job was a summer job serving as a lab assistant for a small business that offered a Lego Robotics summer camp workshops. I learned about what starting a buisness looks and feels like, I learned about children and youth development, and the impact of STEM education opportunities in forming children’s passion. I continued to grow with the start up over the course of few years where I ended up developing curricula and developing and supporting the management of a program. That experience formed my understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come from running and working for a small buisness. It inspired me to run a buisness of my own.

22-year distinguished military career, USAF Mustang (enlisted/officer) with special tours of duty at the Joint Chiefs of Staff (Pentagon), the Commander-in-Chief, Pacific (CINCPAC), as Chief of Administration, USAF Honor Guard (Wash DC) during Reagan Administration. As Commander (SQ Support) Civil Engineering and Operations SQ Support Commander, supporting two F-16 Fighter Squadrons (Korea). Executive Officer (XO) to three Base Commanders. Superintendent, Publishing HQ 15AF. Aerospace Support Group, 1Strad.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I was a carpenter. I started when I was 9 years old. My family decided to build a 3 story house. I worked until I was 12 with hand tools only, then power tools, then had my own small business in my early 20's. I was starting in the early 1980's, and it was a terrible economic time, and my first customers couldn't pay their bills. I only stayed in business for 1 year.

All Stevie Tenderheart Books!

The FAB 4 Novellas in particular.

Stevie Tenderheart

1. Billy Jack (The Grear Escape)

2. My Favorite Place to Be

3. Wait a Minute!

4. A Silent Kiss Goodnight (Stevie & the Toith Fairy)

Also:

1. Backfire by Kodel (Family FUN Game Night Returns

2. A Second Kiss Goodnight

3. Seven Rules (On Becoming a Fantasic Kid)

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

The measure of all things. Show how hard work and dedication allowed people to transform our understanding and commerce.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Superman. I resemble Christopher Reeve and was asked for autographs many times while dining out or in malls in Seoul, Korea.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

"Fly me to the moon" - Frank Sinatra

I have struggled with the frequent realization that inequities have been systemically engrained in society that it may take my lifetime and beyond to reverse all the inequities that exist in our communities. I understand that it takes time to reverse these inequities and achieve justice. Being a public servant, it brings me comfort that it is a shared struggle that we are navigating together.

N/A

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

Making the world a better place for my children, and their children.

It is the House of the People. U.S. House of Representatives is unique in how it brings the power back to the people and forces the representatives to work closely with the people.

Legislation for the good of the people. Paradigm shaoe shifters.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

We need to reach out over all boundaries.

Yes.

No.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

A little, but more important to have real-world experience.

Climate change: Passing the Green New Deal and building climate justice solutions that invest in Oregon-based clean energy production, transmission, and storage technologies.

Exorbitant health care costs: Our dysfunctional system of private hospitals and insurers has left us poorly equipped for the global pandemic. I strongly support Medicare for All. As the board chair of the Corvallis School District, I passed a resolution that demands Congress and the Oregon legislature provide a universal form of healthcare.

increasing income inequality: Oregonians deserve a representative voice that focuses on the impact of economic reforms on working people and small and medium businesses. I strongly support investing in economic development initiatives – economic zones that support local communities, bring back jobs and create new jobs and industries.

The enemies within.:

1. GOP 2. White Supremists

3. Militias

If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

To maintain a robust fundamental economy (beyond just service) while leaving a beautiful and sustainable environment for future generations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Select Committee on Economic Disparity and Fairness in Growth Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress Joint Economic Committee Appropriations Education and Labor Energy and Commerce Homeland Security Judiciary Natural Resources Science, Space, and Technology

Veterans’ Affairs

If you are a current representative, why did you join your current committees?

Military, defense, homeland...

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

N/A

Yes.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

No. 4 would be better with one additional term. No one serves more than 8 years.

In favor of term limits to end conflicts of interest and to achieve better governing.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

In general, voters should be in charge, not arbitrary limitations. For the highest offices represented by a single individual, president and governors, I think we cannot afford to become addicted to one person, so there must be periodic transition of power.

John Lewis

Elijah Cummings Peter DeFazio

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Political figure: RFK

In 2015, I embarked on a cross country journey by train, talking to citizens from Sacramento to NYC. As I listened to people's stories, I was moved by their challenges, victories, and their willingness to share about their lives. This project “What the media missed” gave me the opportunity to hone my talent for listening to people by staying authentic, accepting other opinions, staying in the moment, and listening for clarity. Along the way, I met a woman who talked about her challenges in accessing adequate healthcare for a loved one who eventually passed away. Her story made me realize that I could combine my talent for complex problem-solving and engineering with my passion and ability to listen to the community. She was the spark for my goal of a career in public office.

Tell us your favorite joke.

No.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

There is a lot of leg-pulling in my Stevie Tenderheart children's books. (Kids love that!) Stevie books help parents put their children to bed on time, every time. Just be mindful when you say, "It's Stevie time." As they'll likely hear, "It's TV time." And that's on you!

Sami has demonstrated in many instances that he can have conversations with political rivals, colleagues and community members who may be opposed to his views. He learned at a young age the importance of meeting and talking with others who have opposing views and finding common ground and understanding their unique point of view. As Chair of the Corvallis Board, Sami has been responsive and listened to community members, who have shared their concerns or opposition about decisions or policies that the board has adopted. He is transparent in his communications with community members, parents, students, and colleagues. During the 2016 campaign for District 16 State Representative, Sami demonstrated overwhelming civility in his debates with his opponents, focusing his energy on the issues.

Unfortunately, yes. A better meeting of the minds is the goal. Common sense matters. Character matters. Truth matters. Integrity matters.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

Absolutely! Society is diverse, and diverse voices should be reflected in decisions. It is wrong to have only one perspective represented in public decisions.

I would prioritize raising revenue to address the most dire needs of the American people.