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Oregon Territory

November 18, 2005 — Military Money in Oregon

part one part two

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Oregon’s long history of discouraging military bases in the the state contrasts starkly with neighbors Washington, California, Nevada, and Idaho. But does the decision to embrace a peacetime economy hurt the state economy in times of war and increased spending by the Pentagon?

Many local businesses don’t think so. Biotech and high-tech firms are profiting from defense contracts. Small businesses that make body armor and bandages are increasing sales by selling to the Pentagon. Truck and iron companies are also making money off defense contracts. In all, Oregon businesses are collecting $97 million in defense contracts.

This week, we explore defense contracts in Oregon and what it means for the future of the state economy.

Host: Christy George

Reporter: Kristian Foden-Vencil, OPB News

Guest: Rep. Peter DeFazio; and Ron Tammen, director of Mark Hatfield School of Government at Portland State University and author of “Defense Economics.”

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