Republican candidate for Oregon's governor Bridget Barton talks political priorities

PORTLAND, Ore. — Here is something you don't see too often when it comes to the race for Oregon's governor: next year will be the most wide-open race in nearly 20 years.

The state's current governor, Kate Brown (D), can't run again due to term limits, so the 2022 election is attracting a long list of candidates.

Currently, there are nine Republicans and six Democrats who have filed to run, while even more have declared that they intended to run but haven't filed yet. Among those throwing their hat in the ring for the May 17 primary is Bridget Barton, a Republican from West Linn.

In a one-on-one interview, she explains why now is the time for her to start her political career and what her resume is composed of up until now.

When asked what her top two priorities would be if elected governor, Barton responds with education, and crime and homelessness, which she says are two issues that are intertwined.

Click above to watch the full interview.

READ MORE | Oregon's governor race gets crowded

Also on this week's program is political expert and professor, Jim Moore, who is well-versed in Oregon politics.

When asked how he would describe the upcoming primary, he says, right now, there are no clear favorites.

“But I think it’s going to be a great set of races,” said Moore.

With a crowded field, he helps break down which candidates in each party are getting a lot of attention right now, as well as the pros and cons of running unaffiliated.

Click below to watch the full interview.