Oh, the irony

Sho Dozono is quoted in today’s Oregonian saying he will not continue to run for Mayor unless he qualifies for Public Campaign Financing. He must collect 1,500 forms and five dollarses from registered Portland voters by January 31 to do so.

The Oregonian says in an editorial today:

“The newly announced candidacy of progressive businessman Sho Dozono will require the otherwise unstoppable Adams to earn every vote. Though it’s unfortunate to see another candidate angle for public financing, it’s a relief to have a competitive race at such an important time for the city.”

Sho Dozono’s attempt to qualify for public money for his campaign creates a dilemma for not only the Oregonian‘s editors, staunch opponents of Public Campaign Financing, but also the Portland Business Alliance, which funded a failed attempt to refer the program to voters in 2006. Collecting 1500 donations AND FORMS in 24 days is a monumental task. In order to succeed, Sho will need the Oregonian to give him lots of free publicity, reminding potential donors to return their forms. Members of the Portland Business Alliance will have to beg colleagues to contribute.

Delicious irony.