Rural Oregon has always been more conservative than the socialist conclaves on the Wet side of the state.
I think though, that gay marriage, unending demands for more taxes, crappy schools and the sluggish economy caused by over regulation curtesy of the envirals has taken it's toll on the usually silent middle roaders and soccer moms, starting the state to trend right.
I'm also hopeful that Lars Larson has had effect on the voting population.
Thanks for answering....and, yes I agree about Lars. He is a Tillamook guy and I live in Tillamook County. He actually comes out to the Fair in August and broadcasts from there. No matter how FAMOUS he becomes, I suspect he will always have his values rooted in his beginnings.