SALEM – Oregon Democratic Senator Ron Wyden is distancing himself from the Romney-Ryan ticket despite the presidential candidate’s attempt to use him as an example of bipartisanship.
Mitt Romney appeared alongside Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan for the first time as the Republican presidential ticket on Saturday morning in Virginia.
More: Romney chooses Ryan as running mate
Just hours after his campaign confirmed Ryan as his selection, Romney said that Democrats may disagree with Ryan's policies, but he doesn't know anyone who doesn't respect his character and judgment. Last year, Senator Wyden and Congressman Ryan worked together on a proposal to reform Medicare. Wyden took some heat then, from fellow Democrats. But things hit a fever pitch over the weekend when Romney used that collaboration as an example of Ryan's willingness to "reach across the aisle."
On Monday, Wyden told KGW it was “nonsense” for Romney to imply that he supported the plan that eventually went through the House.
“I believe very strongly in bipartisanship, I always will. But you aren't going to get there by making up the facts,” Wyden said.
Senator Wyden said his allegiance continues to be with President Obama.
