Logging companies are investing heavily in businessman Ron Saxton’s (R) campaign to unseat Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski (D). Fundraising reports released yesterday show that Saxton has raised $255,000 since the May 16 primary, while the governor has raised only $105,000. A large part of the difference is covered by two logging companies that gave Saxton $50,000 each. All in all, the logging industry has provided 1 of every 5 dollars Saxton has raised.

"Look at where the largest supporters are for each candidate, and it tells you what you need to know about what we stand for," said Anna Richter Taylor, Kulongoski campaign spokeswoman. "Our supporters are teachers, and [Saxton's] are timber companies."

The timber industry is probably siding with Saxton because Kulongoski has tried to prevent logging in areas with no roads. If his efforts have hurt him financially, at least they got him the endorsement of the Sierra Club.

The most recent polls show Kulongoski ahead of a Saxton by only a couple of points.