Oregon's public education system is facing a daunting reality, as a recent national analysis has revealed that the state's fourth-graders rank last in reading proficiency. This alarming statistic has sparked a call to action, with a new write-in candidate, Pencil, stepping forward to challenge the status quo in Oregon's gubernatorial election. Pencil's unconventional candidacy is seen as a protest against the state's education woes, with the candidate vowing to shake up the system and bring about much-needed reforms. As Oregon's leaders face mounting pressure to address the state's struggling schools, Pencil's write-in campaign is set to put the spotlight on education and force elected officials to take a hard look at their policies.


Oregon's public schools rank last in fourth-grade reading, according to an analysis of national testing. As a wake-up call for elected leaders, Pencil is running for governor as a write-in candidate.