News crews are fawning today over Sen. Barack Obama’s record-size crowd in Portland, Oregon, yesterday – a ridiculous 75,000 people. Having just spent some time in Portland last week talking with Oregonians, here are a few reasons why the city is such a flashpoint for “Obama-mania”:

  1. Oregon’s primary matters. In a normal election year, Oregon’s primary would have little or no influence on presidential nominees. Oregonians are understandably enthusiastic about exercising their right to vote, because this year, the country cares who they pick. Since voting is conducted by mail-in ballot, it isn’t difficult to participate.
  2. Oregon will matter in November. Political strategists are predicting Oregon will be a possible swing state in the general election. That’s why John McCain was there last week, touting his environmental credentials. Even though Oregon might seem to be a blue state, that’s mostly due to Portland’s influence. The rest of the state isn’t as far-left, opening the possibility of a McCain steal in the fall. (Doubtful, but worth attempting.)
  3. It’s Portland. Not only is Portland very liberal, it’s has the right kind of liberal for Obama: the so-called ‘latte liberals’ which have consistently voted for Obama in previous primaries. These voters are extremely excited about an Obama candidacy, often saying, “For the first time in my life, I’m voting for a candidate I really like, instead of settling [for the lesser of two evils].”
  4. The candidates care! As a result of Oregon’s newfound influence, both parties are spending time and money in the Beaver State, trying to flatter voters with attention. Obama’s campaign especially is cultivating this recipe in Portland, where Obama support is strongest. They have the resources and every reason to do this.

Of course, McCain’s campaign would be smart to retort that fawning crowds and smooth rhetoric don’t always translate into legislative accomplishments. But in the meantime, the Obama-mania continues, and the Obama campaign enjoys another warm news day.