Adam Davis, of Davis, Hibbits and Midghall has more than 30 years of experience in all phases of public opinion research. His has conducted hundreds or research projects throughout the United States and on location in Europe and Japan.

Notes

Calls himself “Mr Doom and Gloom” – I can respect that.

Says were at a category 5 hurricane level. Next up? Super Typhoon!

Negativity is rampant and multi-dimensional.

Low awareness and knowledge levels: Most Oregonians don’t know that we have 2 senators. Or, that there are 3 branches of government. Or, can name a single tax!

Many Portlanders don’t even know which way the Willimette flows. I have had this conversation with people :)

This lack on knowledge seem to be hitting the youth hardest… Hmm, I wonder if that will change as the youth ages. Is it really generational?

Anxiety Related to the Economy.

For a long time, there was no one issue that the residents of Oregon were complaining that the government need to focus on. Before the downturn, the main ones were healthcare and Education.

Non-factual claims spread more quickly and more likely to go unchallenged.

Changing demographics: population growth, more diversity, aging population.

Values and beliefs:

• What do you value
• outdoor recreation
• natural beauty
• water and air quality
• sense of community
• climate

Initiatives

• E-Government (Transactional not just informational)
• Change how we talk about government (see http://www.demos.org)

Provide a priority service.

You website is of vast importance! They don’t trust doctors, or politicians, but they do trust the web.

Accommodate growing diversity.