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Monica Wehby takes on Phil Knight in the Readers' Choice poll for Oregon's "most intriguing political figure."
(File)
Readers who participated in our "most intriguing political figure" polls have picked Republican senatorial candidate Monica Wehby and Nike co-founder Phil Knight to square off in the finals.
It's down to the final vote to see who readers crown the most intriguing politico in Oregon.
Knight, whose political
influence has become more apparent in recent years, advanced after readers
chose him over Republican strategist Elaine Franklin, wife of former U.S. Sen.
Bob Packwood. Knight won despite Packwood's lobbying efforts on behalf of Franklin. In an email, obtained by The Oregonian, Packwood urged friends to vote.
"Thanks to all of you who helped Elaine make it to the quarterfinals," he wrote. "No rest for the wicked...Elaine helped get me thru numerous political victories. Now it is my turn to help her."
Wehby moved ahead by bumping Sen. Betsy Johnson, D-Scappoose.
That sets up a final contest between a Portland brain surgeon making her first bid for elected office, and perhaps Oregon's most famous businessman, who has made billions of dollars selling athletic shoes and apparel.
Voting to determine who will be the Readers' Choice as most intriguing begins now. Results, along with The Oregonian's political team's pick, will be announced early Saturday.
-- Harry Esteve