The dispute surrounding Rep. Christine Goodwin’s eligibility to run for the state Senate has escalated, with a group of Josephine County voters filing a lawsuit alleging that she does not reside in the district she seeks to represent.
The lawsuit, filed against Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade, contends that Goodwin’s listed address on campaign documents is actually the location of a vineyard’s tasting room, casting doubt on her eligibility for office.
Goodwin, who currently serves in the state House, is vying for the Senate seat currently held by Art Robinson, who is ineligible for reelection due to his participation in a legislative walkout.
The Republican primary for the 2nd Senate District heavily favors the GOP nominee, so the outcome is of considerable significance.
Voters (Credits: Gallup News)
The lawsuit, brought by Josephine County Commissioner John West and several Grants Pass residents, seeks to prevent Goodwin from appearing on the primary ballot.
It alleges that her candidacy would cause “irreparable injury” by diluting votes for other candidates and potentially leaving the Republican Party without a qualified nominee.
In response, Goodwin vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that she resides in Canyonville on the Falk ranch, contrary to the claims made in the lawsuit.
She dismissed the accusations as a politically motivated attack orchestrated by opponents, expressing confidence in the voters of southern Oregon to support her candidacy.
Voters (Credits: Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy)
However, John West, one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, countered Goodwin’s claims by stating that he visited the address listed on her campaign documents and was informed by a resident that she maintains a studio on the Falk property while residing in Myrtle Creek, raising doubts about her residency status.
The dispute underscores the high stakes involved in the race for the 2nd Senate District and the contentious nature of the campaign.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the lawsuit’s outcome could have significant implications for the electoral landscape in southern Oregon, potentially shaping the trajectory of the upcoming primary and general elections.
