Paul Romero

Paul Romero was born in New Iberia, Louisiana. He was a cryptologic technician communications petty officer first class in the U.S. Navy. He served from December 1985 to January 1996. He earned a high school diploma from Crook County High School. Romero earned a B.S. in workforce education and development from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale in 2010. His professional experience includes working as a substitute teacher, in communications, customer service, sales, project management, and materials. Romero has worked as a business owner, auditor, private investigator, video blogger, and Dasher.[1] He is affiliated with Youwalk Today, Inc., the Non-Commissioned Officers Association (NCOA), the VFW, American Legion, Band of Brothers, and the Fleet Reserve Association.[2][3][4]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’ve always said the Constitution and Rule of Law comes first – not the political machine, not the donor class, not the masses or who screams the loudest, and not the good old boys’ club. I am a registered Republican because I believe in freedom, fiscal responsibility, and personal accountability. But what I’ve seen in Oregon and across the country tells me something bigger is needed.

That’s why I’m officially running for Governor of Oregon, as a candidate truly representing “We the People.” I am not a traditional politician; I am a project manager. Make no mistake, Government is “business” and when run under the limitations of our Constitution and Rule of Law, IT WORKS for everyone! My goals are to finish each project timely and under budget. Whether it’s auditing, fixing, or building, I have all the skills to successfully address the problems we face in Oregon today.

As a Navy Veteran who is in good standing with a Top-Secret SCI clearance during my Navy career, I swore an oath to my country and Constitution. This campaign is not about sides. It is about true representation standing for all Oregonians. Oregonians are tired of being taxed, lied to, abused, and ignored.

As a Navy veteran, a substitute teacher, a father and a brand-new grandfather, I’ve seen the systems break from the inside out. There is too much special interest influence and nepotism in all of government that we’ve lost common sense and decency.

BS in Workforce Education & Development.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Oregon’s leaders have taxed families nearly to death and it's getting worse! It is time for promises made, promises kept. I am not a politician. I am a project manager seeking the opportunity to be your Statesman.

There was a time when Oregon thrived from our natural timber resources. Schools were funded, roads maintained, business flourished. Then came the deceptive Federal Welfare to prevent us from benefitting from our own resources. This burdened all Oregonians, killed businesses, and increased poverty. I intend to reverse this and revitalize Oregon by ending income and property tax, and work towards a balanced approach for Oregonians and business alike. We must establish a desirable economic climate for Oregon to prosper.Fiscal responsibility is also of utmost importance, and it is time for a quick and vigorous audit of Oregon’s budget and general fund to root out the fraud, waste, and inefficiency of the people’s money. We must ensure funds are being routed correctly, that PERS money is being properly managed as to not create any burden to Oregonians, and that public education is fulfilled by tried-and-true processes. State colleges must be made affordable for our children and grandchildren. Past high school graduates

Oregon doesn’t need more party politics. It needs real leadership rooted in truth, transparency, and constitutional accountability.Further I will seek a Constitutional Amendment to create the position of Lt. Governor and make the Superintendent of Oregon Schools an elected position, NOT part of the Governor’s appointment. The Lt. Governor will be a running mate of the Governor for elections. All elections must return to paper ballots, mail in ballots will be limited and strictly for those who can’t access voting stations, like abroad deployed military and those who are unable to travel.

Oregon doesn’t need more party politics. It needs real leadership rooted in truth, transparency, and constitutional accountability. My commitment can be found at www.romerofororegon.com under the tab “Contract with Oregonians”, it is a living breathing contract with ALL Oregonians.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Education is extremely important to me and there needs to be jobs for our high school and college graduates. Creating a fiscal environment that attracts businesses in technology, the trades, services, retail, healthcare, etc. Less tax burden brings in the jobs.

Those jobs will require both high school graduates and college graduates. Addressing the trades will be important so that our own colleges can provide the educational path necessary along with low cost by working with each trade industry.

The tax burden has been excessive with promises to get worse next year. This is due to poor spending practices and inefficient state processes. All of this must be revisited in detail. Income and property taxes must end.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I've had many mentors along the way with a handful of people I've looked up to. The most influential was a toss-up between my grandfather and Donald Purkerson of Prineville, OR. They both gave me great advice, and I wish I could remember it all. I regret their passing as I have a whole lot of questions for them, and I could always trust their answers. I suppose the people we look up to invariably become part of who we are by default. We become them in small and big ways. Don always had a smile for everyone and knew when to offer what. He could read people and know what they needed in the moment. He was truly kind and fierce. He was one of the Chosin few who survived. But that's another story.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

I can't say what principles are most important for other elected officials, but for myself the standard is high. Honesty, compassion, integrity, confidence and flexibility. I could expand with the ability to focus on the big picture, notably the future which will entail new technologies for the world. Why not put Oregon on the next wave to success? The ability to communicate successfully with anyone from any walk of life. Being genuine and forthright. To be kind but fierce, showing civility and respect. The ability to relate is a true measure of the ability to represent. To integrate myself into all departments to effectively have a working knowledge of their purpose, goals, and accomplishments. Always giving credit where credit is due. To be informed and trustworthy while supporting a positive work environment.

I understand that I don't know it all and I'm not an expert on all things. I always seek out those who are experts and have real knowledge to the condition or situation I'm dealing with. No man is an island, least of all me.

And ultimately, I serve ALL Oregonians. Not any single group or individual. This has been a real problem for our current administration. The Constitution and Rule of Law work when applied to everyone.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The standard canned response would be to overseeing the implementation of state laws, managing state agencies, and representing the state’s interests both long and short term. This influence extends across executive, legislative, and intergovernmental domains. Responsibilities further include administrative duties and strategic leadership.

I see the responsibilities of a Governor through the eyes of a Project Manager. In addition to the above core responsibilities, a Project Manager is responsible for successful project handling and execution. This includes overseeing project planning and ensuring effective task delegation to coordinating among the various departments and stakeholders. My responsibilities as Governor go beyond just managing projects and delegation.

I will ensure projects move forward smoothly and are on time while meeting quality standards, budget constraints, and efficiency goals. Provide department direction over the finish line, ensuring their efforts stay aligned to broader project objectives. Lastly, whatever the project outcome is, as the project manager/Governor, I'm held accountable for both successes and failures. This is also what it means to be a leader.

What legacy would you like to leave?

To be the greatest Governor that Oregon ever had with the hope I would lose that title as I depart.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember when Elvis died. I must have been in the first or second grade and all the ladies in my neighborhood were crying. I also remember watching on TV when Vietnam Vets were coming off a plane.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

In the 4th grade I started mowing lawns for $5.00 each and did that off and on till my senior year in high school, but at $20 each.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Many would say the Bible for obvious reasons and I do appreciate it as a Christian and as a person.

For life: 12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson

For entertainment: The JRR Tolkein Hobbit and Lord of the Rings series. Great responsibility. Good over evil. The team element. Never give up, never surrender.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Aragorn or "Strider" of The Lord of the Rings fame. Not to be king but to be put to test of impossible odds and come out battered but victorious.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Being a single parent with five kids. I look back and wonder how I did it. I wish I could remember the details, but it just seems like a blur. I've always managed to find success but often I'd have to work double or triple to get it. This didn't dissuade me as I've always had the never give up, never surrender mentality. Education came easy, military success was work but not over taxing, but life as a parent has probably been the greatest challenge and the greatest satisfaction. It's not to say everything was perfect as it wasn't, but we made it through and made the most out of what we had. Now, I'm a grandfather as of November 7th, 2025. It kinda feels like I crossed one finish line only to jump into the next race having won the last one.

Governors have many responsibilities, which vary from state to state. Which of those do you personally consider the most important in your state?

Protecting Constitutionally protected rights and applying the Rule of Law equally and fairly to all Oregonians are the most important responsibilities of any Governor.

Different states require governors to have different degrees of responsibility for the state budgeting process. If it were your choice, what do you believe is the appropriate degree of gubernatorial involvement with this process in your state?

I would say the ability to propose budgets, influence budgetary decisions, and veto budget-related legislation would be more than adequate. A line-item-veto power would be ideal.

In most states, governors have the power to make line-item vetoes. If that is true in your state, what would be your philosophy for how and when to use this power?

Oregon does have line-item-veto and I think it comes down to what the people want. Wasteful spending like pet projects and things voters have voted against would be at the top of the veto list.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

It should be open, public, functional, and respectful.

What do you love most about your state?

Growing up here I love the outdoors. Camping, hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, boating, etc. From my first camping trip with the Boy Scouts in the 5th grade I have been sold on Oregon. I love the peace and quiet the woods have to offer. Public lands must be public again and license fees, etc. must be reduced to 1984 levels. That way everyone can afford what makes Oregon God's country.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Shifting gears from chasing jobs out of the state and intentional excessive inflation to the opposite which is on my agenda. Educating our children and past high school graduates so that they will be employable for jobs other than simple labor. Reducing the high cost of state government which I think will be easier than not as it has been very fat for a long time. Time for a fiscal diet.

Under what circumstances should the governor of your state be able to use emergency powers?

When there is a legitimate emergency. This shouldn't be hard. Major flooding, severe storm, severe earthquake, volcanic eruption, and the like. We have navigated some pretty severe snowstorms and power outages already. At the worst, a vote by the legislature to declare an emergency to which the Governor can sign off on as long as it's timely.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Oregonians

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

Ballot initiative process is in need of work as it has been intentionally made to be very difficult. Naming and descriptions of such things has also been intentionally misleading although state law requires that it be easily understood by someone with as low as a 5th grade reading level. Make it easier and let the people vote. However, to see the Legislature IGNORE the vote of the people and take other action should be criminal.

A governor is the top executive authority in his or her state. What does that mean to you?

It means as governor I am responsible for implementing state laws and overseeing the operation of the state's executive branch. My duties are outlined in the state's constitution. I must be able to offer Oregonians a vision of the future growth and improvement of the state while navigating the Legislature.

Candidates hear many personal stories from voters. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching or memorable?

So many. I've spoken with widows who have lost their husbands of 60 plus years who are heart broken. The thing is that I feel their loss pretty intensely in the moment. I get it. I've had a child tell me they wish they had a quiet place to sleep then school would be easier. I've spoken with people who lost their home due to late taxes. A home that was paid off over a lifetime, gone. To me, stolen by a heartless and cruel system that needs to change. Friends that have given up on Oregon as they couldn't afford it anymore and had to leave the state. Too many stories like this, stories that could easily have better endings if only leadership actually did their job.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

I have medals from my time in the Navy, advancements in rank, college degrees, but what I'm most proud of are my children. They've all had varying degrees of success, but they are living life, surviving, thriving, and finally I have a grandson to make sure I share all I have experienced and my grandfather's ring. Legacy to pass on to the next runner.

What role should your state’s government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?

None. It is not our place to be in such business. AI will have to be dealt with at the Federal level to possibly be effective. As it stands there are few guidelines and inconsistent "rules" company to company. Inevitably we will have to embrace it. We may be able to limit its ability to put people out of work. We may be able to require all AI generated pictures, videos, language, etc. to have an "AI" disclaimer so people know what is real.

What legislation would you want to sign related to election administration in your state?

Simple, go back to paper ballots and anyone who prevents any poll worker from performing their appointed job will be fined and jailed. No excluding another party from observing the process, ever. No more ballot harvesting.

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Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased Sep 15, 2022

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

As a ten year US Navy Veteran, business owner, and father of five, I know the fiery hoops of life. Growing up in Oregon I have bucked hay, changed pipe, shoveled out horse stalls and pig sties, drove tractors, built fence, and cut wood in the Ochocos. I have hunted, fished, camped, hiked, and canoed all over Oregon. I love this Oregon. My life experience and education will serve Oregon well through my degree in workforce education and development to my times as a project manager, auditor, and laborer. Oregon doesn't need anymore politicians who will side-step, deflect, and kick the can down the road. Oregon needs a project manager who understands that the job must be done and done right. I've worked my entire life and it's not been easy. I can truly relate to the average Oregonian. I've been there...I am there. No easy street for me. Effective communications, understanding the core problem (not the symptoms), and conviction of responsibility will make it easier for the tasks before me as the next Governor of Oregon. Never give up, never surrender. There is always a way through and sometimes we have to be creative in the solution. My Contract With Oregon at www.romerofororegon.com will give you the insight you need to make a sound decision to WRITE IN 'Paul Romero' for Oregon Governor.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Oregonians are taxed and fee'ed too much. We must remove property tax, state income tax, and fall back to just sales tax (following a statewide audit.) This will be fair for all who pass through Oregon. No toll roads.Recovery of state timber lands from federal control, state & county management of our forest lands (public lands), and personal land ownership opportunities.Parental Rights as ruled on by the US Supreme Court. End indoctrination, CRT, CSE, etc. while recovering our education system through competition of charter schools, home schools and public schools. Bring back the PTA!

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

-Olde School is the best school. With existing verification of our compromised electronic vote tallying system, a return to small precincts of 1000 or less, voter sign in logs with ID, paper ballots, and voting holiday for maximum participation. Secure, fair, and transparent voting system.

-No more recruiting homeless to Oregon. Return homeless transplants back to their original states, e-verify remaining homeless (illegals will be submitted to ICE), and this should greatly improve the success of existing homeless programs in Oregon that are already funded but which have been plugged up with illegal immigrants and out of state homeless.

-Create serious punishment and deterrent for those who would commit acts of violence and destruction of private and public property.

-Returning issues affecting all Oregonians back to the voters. Holding the Legislature accountable for ignoring their constituents.

-To combat and prevent human trafficking, holding those guilty of participation to fully account and providing support to survivors. Focus will be given to investigating child trafficking and its end; With the elimination of child trafficking, adoption will become easier and made more affordable.

-Rescind the CAT tax and remove regulations interfering with the propagation of businesses in Oregon.

-Sanctuary cities will be banned, notably in regards to immigration; the whole state of Oregon will be a sanctuary for the Constitution. America First, Oregonians First.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

This is a long list: Tom McCall, Oregon Governor- He did the right things for the right reasons for all Oregonians. Admiral Boorda, US Chief of Naval Operations- I worked for him on the USS Nimitz. He was a sailor's sailor. Came in underage as an E-1 and made his way to O-10. He understood the balance of management and leadership and took the time to speak with me as an E-3 Deck Seaman. He was truly inspiring. George Washington, General and 1st President of the USA- He stood for so many great things that built the strong foundation of our nation. His history in battle and protection through incredible odds lends itself to a never give up, never surrender mentality that I share. Go forward and do it boldly. He did this for all of us and I appreciate that sacrifice. My Papa, Thomas Crofton. He always had good advice and insight. He showed me how hard work could get you to where you wanted, but taking care of the people around you is 90% of it. He was the first in his company to hire a woman to a Supervisory position, and the first to hire a black man to a Supervisory position. He understood and recognized qualified people. He didn't care about their sex, color, etc., he respected them for their ability and rewarded that accordingly even when attacked from above by lesser people than he. He stood his ground, righteous ground. He taught me that no matter how different we were, that we could still recognized and support the ability of anyone...and that we should.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Theodore Roosevelt's speech "Citizenship in a Republic" April 23, 1910.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, integrity, candor, intelligence, applications, and the ability to communicate to all levels of people from varying socioeconomic backgrounds. Being strategic with the ability to foresee possibilities and take in a 35,000 foot view thus seeing a true big picture. The ability to research and analyze various information and data to realize optimum solutions.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Intelligent and intuitive. I pride myself on being a Boy Scout, playing by the rules and staying in bounds. I don't have a photographic (eidetic) memory, but I remember most of what I see, read, and hear without repetition for memorization (rote memory.) I believe in a team approach and identifying those with specialized skills for given tasks. Qualified and capable people over equity and good ole boy's club. The ability to listen, relate to, and empathize with voters.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Integrity to represent the People. To be able to explain why what they want violates the Constitution or doesn't, whether we could afford their requests and how, and the absolute ability to stand their ground to uphold their oath. To always perform in such a way that does not violate the public trust.

What legacy would you like to leave?

That I made every effort and succeeded in protecting the freedom, liberty, and sovereignty of the People. That my actions to restore and repair Oregon will be the high bar setting for those who will follow me. To know that I did so well that I could travel anywhere in Oregon, by myself, and not worry about meeting fellow Oregonians. That they would ask me to return and do more for Oregon.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I remember the day Elvis died. I was in the 1st or 2nd Grade (6 or 7 years old) in Pleasanthill, California. Every woman my Mom knew was crying. I didn't know who Elvis was but it had a profound effect on a lot of people. I remember hugging people to help them feel better. My babysitter Jackie was in High School and she was pretty upset too.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was mowing lawns when I could barely push the law mower, but the first job that resulted in a paycheck was being a paperboy in Pendleton, Oregon. I took over the route in the 7th grade and worked it for about a year, then we moved to Prineville, Oregon. I really enjoyed the interaction with the customers who were older and had a wealth of life stories to share. I didn't care for the winters and delivering papers in the early AM when snow was an issue. That made the route a lot longer.

What is your favorite book? Why?

So many 'George Washington - A Collection', 'The Art of War', 'The New Dictionary of Thoughts', etc. That last one I pull from regularly when I need inspiration beyond what I already have. It is a compilation of condensed and striking thoughts from the worlds best thinkers covering all types of subjects. Often, it provides multiple perspectives that make for a a better final product.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Captain America. His innate character and strong will were magnified following the serum injections. He understood that what was most important is protecting people above all else. He was also worthy enough to wield Thor's Hammer "Mjolnir" which put him on par with Thor the God of Thunder. I often say "If I have to drag Oregon back from the brink kicking and screaming by myself, then I'll do it. But I just assume to have help." A great line from the Captain, “I know I’m asking a lot, but the price of freedom is high. It always has been. And it’s a price I’m willing to pay. And if I’m the only one, then so be it. But I’m willing to bet I’m not.”

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

The Monkey's - I'm a Believer. I like to sing to my wife Oksana. She likes Frank Sinatra - Fly Me To The Moon, which I do often for her. Whenever a song comes on and I'm singing the lyrics, my wife is in shock that I know so many lyrics to so many songs, part of my memory thing. And yes, I do KARAOKE! ...you could be better than your are, you could be swinging on a star!

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Finding a single career direction. My life has been a shotgun blast of experiences. I was never bored and enjoyed the various work experiences to varying degrees. Some decide they want to be a doctor, become a doctor, and are a doctor all their life. I have performed so many different jobs, and earned a BS in Workforce Education & Development, that I finally saw my areas of expertise and core needs for any job I might take on. Project Management, Communications, Training, and Customer Service. I like making things better. I like helping people find their potential and engage it. I like people. So anything I do must fundamentally help people. What better way than to take my 56 years of life experience and put it to use relating to voters and fixing problems from a position that can make things happen.

A governor is the top executive authority in his or her state. What does that mean do you?

It means acting on behalf of WE THE PEOPLE in the capacity and limitations of the State and Federal Constitutions. To build and maintain the necessary infrastructure that provides basic necessities for families, businesses, farmers, ranchers, and industry. To remove limitations and restrictions of our economy and not allow special interest groups dictate to the whole.

Governors have many responsibilities, which vary from state to state. Which of those do you personally consider the most important in your state?

Protecting the people and our children. To always be mindful and maintain a fiduciary role to reduce taxes, fees, and expenses to the population by reducing government, red tape, and excessive restrictions. To foster an environment that enhances economics regarding supply & demand. The avoidance of excessive fees and the assurance that appropriated monies go to their intended projects. Being able to re-evaluate various projects to minimize costs, overruns, and make for a fair contract awards environment.

Different states require governors to have different degrees of responsibility for the state budgeting process. If it were your choice, what do you believe is the appropriate degree of gubernatorial involvement with this process in your state?

Significant involvement, notably in audit supervision and translating the needs, wants, and desires of the People, ensuring that small groups do not control the budgeting process for pet projects, etc.

In most states, governors have the power to make line-item vetoes. If that is true in your state, what would be your philosophy for how and when to use this power?

Veto power should first be used to stop a unconstitutional bill. If bills are cluttered with multiple and unrelated items, then there should be a line-item Veto. Those things that fall under the rigors of the Constitution and are not favored b