On the off chance former President Bill Clinton is seen walking the University campus on Halloween, don’t write off the sighting as a costume spoof.
U.S. Senate candidate Bill Bradbury has enlisted the help of some big-name Democrats in his attempt to make up ground in the upcoming November election, with Clinton visiting McArthur Court Oct. 31 as the featured speaker in a rally intended to bolster support for Bradbury.
“It’s a great honor and a real thrill to have someone I respect so much campaign on my behalf,” Bradbury said.
And while Clinton’s visit may not excite everyone, Bradbury’s Halloween cast just might. Oregon Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ted Kulongoski, U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., saxophonist Paul Biondi and Art Alexakis of Everclear will also join the rally to help Bradbury’s cause.
“Basically, it’s all part of an effort to excite and educate people on my candidacy,” Bradbury said.
Bradbury, Oregon’s current Secretary of State, considers himself the underdog in the Senate race. Attempting to knock incumbent Gordon Smith out of office has been a chore thus far, with many projecting a republican victory. Some consider the rally, titled “Get Out the Vote,” a last-ditch effort to propel Bradbury’s campaign.
“I’m not surprised,” said Matt Pfeiffer, chairman of the University’s College Republicans. “I guess they’ve got to do what they’ve got to do.”
Pfeiffer, who said he is confident in a Smith victory, added that the rally probably has a two-fold purpose. Pfeiffer said he believes Democrats are worried Kulongoski’s campaign has stalled and said he thinks the rally is a means to protect his lead.
“I think they’re doing everything they can do to keep ahead,” Pfeiffer said of the gubernatorial campaign.
Mike Linman, co-chairman of the University’s College Democrats, doesn’t believe the rally is being held out of necessity as much as it is to get students excited about voting.
“I don’t think it was made out of desperation,” Linman said. “(Clinton’s) only going to be in areas where his influence will make a difference.”
Ten years ago, Bradbury and Clinton visited the University weeks before Clinton was elected the 42nd president of the United States. Bradbury said he distinctly remembers the University’s atmosphere and added that he hopes the crowd’s excitement will be reminiscent of the past.
“I just feel it’s so perfect to be going back to Mac Court,” he said.