>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Sen. Ron Wyden is living up to his promise of keeping in touch with Oregonians.

Wyden, D-Ore., recently visited Joseph for his annual Wallowa County town hall meeting. He met with about 100 students and a couple dozen community members and answered questions about topics ranging from the war in Iraq and veterans care to timber payments and the need to thin the forests.

The visit was part of Wyden’s pledge during his first Senate campaign in 1996 that he would hold town halls in every county in Oregon each year. His town halls now total about 475.

Whether or not you agree with Wyden’s politics, you’ve got to give him credit for staying in touch and making himself accessible to citizens. More often than not, about the only time we see most statewide politicians is during election cycles. Not so with Wyden. He has lived up to his promise despite the fact that the 36 counties he represents are in a state clear across the country from the seat of government; that he is an active and vocal member of the U.S. Senate; and that he is the father of 6-month-old twins.

That’s dedication. And it shows a commitment to staying in touch with constituents. Thank you, Sen. Wyden.