We like Mike.

Local presidential candidate Michael Smith is hitting the campaign trail this week, heading to the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo in Redmond to drum up support and hopefully a little cash. Once again, I think this campaign is a great idea, even if I can't quite convince myself to register as a Republican to help Mr. Smith get onto the Oregon primary. (I figure I'll have to use my vote to help prevent Hillary Clinton from getting the Democratic nomination.) But I support Smith's efforts and would love to see him shake things up a bit.

Whatever your party affiliation, this grass roots campaign has the potential to effect real change in the current political wasteland. He's not one of those Republicans; he's a reasonable moderate with ideas drawn from all over the political spectrum. He brandishes his opinions on the internets, commenting on hot issues while they're still current news. Wouldn't that be a refreshing change from the status quo?

At the very least, helping Mr. Smith get onto the Oregon primary will help restore a moderate voice to a party that has apparently abandoned reason for madness. (No, I'm not sure why I'm quoting Gandalf, except that it fits.) Please consider contributing to Smith's campaign, or at least mention him in conversation to other people. Spread the word. Be part of something politically positive.