The decision to step into the political arena in Josephine County has not been an easy one, especially as a rabbi. For many, the intersection of faith and politics raises questions, but my choice to engage is deeply rooted in both my personal values and a troubling reality I’ve come to witness in our community.
Six years ago, I arrived in Josephine County with hope and optimism, bringing with me years of experience, including my involvement in the Washington County Republican Party near Portland. However, I quickly discovered a stark difference between the politics I had known and the toxic atmosphere dominating the local Republican Party here. What I found was not typical political engagement but something darker: an environment fueled by division, intolerance, and a refusal to embrace inclusivity.
In response to this troubling landscape, I established the Center for Human Equality (CHE), an organization dedicated to ensuring respect and dignity for all people. This initiative was not about political maneuvering but about addressing a fundamental need within our community—a pushback against the hate and judgmentalism emanating from the local Republican Party.
My research into Josephine County’s history revealed a disturbing backdrop. From the presence of the Ku Klux Klan to the enforcement of Sundown laws, the county’s past is marred by systemic bigotry. This history provides context for the present, where some current political leaders, such as Republican Party Chair Holli Morton, appear to cling to a nostalgic view of the past. Morton’s leadership, coupled with her public admiration for known antisemites, reflects an ongoing pattern of intolerance that is not just concerning but deeply harmful.
My own interactions with Morton have underscored this troubling reality. In one email, she called me names, labeled me a “RINO” (Republican In Name Only), and insisted I “fit in.” Her continued support of individuals with antisemitic views and her repeated reelection by precinct committee persons (PCPs) suggest an acceptance of bigotry within the local party’s leadership structure. By endorsing such behavior, these PCPs become complicit in perpetuating a culture of division.
Efforts to silence dissent and suppress opposition have also become common tactics. These include lawsuits, social media censorship, and attempts to dominate local political discourse. However, there are glimmers of hope. The successful recall of John West, a staunch ally of the current leadership, demonstrates that the community is ready for change. In the Williams community, 84% of voters, spanning Republicans and others, rejected West, a strong signal that divisive leadership is losing ground.
My political involvement is not about personal ambition but about confronting hatred and fostering ethical governance. As a rabbi, I believe in building bridges, promoting respectful dialogue, and working toward unity. The goal is to create a community that values diversity, respects all residents, and seeks collaborative solutions to shared challenges.
Josephine County must move forward, leaving behind the vestiges of its darker past. This is not just about politics—it’s about creating a community where everyone feels welcome and valued. Change is possible, but it requires the collective effort of those committed to a more inclusive and ethical future. Together, we can shine a light on intolerance and work toward building a brighter, more unified community.