The article explains how Democrats\u2019 efforts to win midterm elections by framing economic \u201caffordability\u201d are being elaborate in Oregon by a ballot measure tied to higher transportation taxes.<\/p>\n

In Oregon, the Democratic-controlled legislature approved increases to the state gas tax and other fees to fund road and transportation projects. Republicans quickly organized a referendum to repeal those increases, and the vote is scheduled for May 19-timed badly for supporters because gas prices are rising sharply nationwide due<\/a> to disruptions in the oil industry from the Iran war, with Oregon seeing particularly high averages.<\/p>\n

Supporters of the repeal argue it\u2019s the wrong time to raise costs and point to how much more people are paying at the pump. The article notes, for example, that the gas tax would rise from 40 cents to 46 cents per gallon, perhaps putting Oregon among the highest gas-tax states when combined with other fees.<\/p>\n

Democrats, meanwhile, say the funding is necessary for transportation needs and that the broader debate included concerns about declining gas-tax revenue as more drivers use electric, hybrid, and fuel-efficient vehicles<\/a>. the governor acknowledges the referendum is a \u201ctough sell\u201d because many households feel financial pressure already. <\/p>\n