In fact, what's most striking about the 1999 Legislature is how much it looks like the previous one. A few key priorities sought by the ruling Republicans' business donors are moving. For people who want action from the Legislature, the answer illustrates both the beauty and the bane of the democratic process. Money surely buys access to politicians, but it may not buy results. Big givers still must navigate a complex legislative ecosystem that has naturally evolved to protect the status quo.
Several rules rule A few ground rules dominate the game.
First, power remains split between Democratic Gov. John Kitzhaber and the Republican-led Legislature, as it has since 1995. Take beer and wine wholesalers, top givers to both the ruling Republicans and Democrats. The restaurant and grocery lobbies, an equally generous bunch, want to be allowed to buy from the wholesalers on credit. Other interests can collide, too, given the diversity of business groups that comprise the Republican majority's financial base. Just ask former House Speaker Larry Campbell.