FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 16, 2008

Jan and Jack McGowan Endorse Measure 65

(Portland, OR) – Jan and Jack McGowan, former co-executive directors of SOLV, have endorsed Oregon’s Open Primary ballot measure, saying it’s the way to engage more independent-minded voters and candidates in the political process that will bring sensible solutions to the table for all Oregonians.

"It’s time to restore Oregon’s independent spirit,” said Jack McGowan. "Pragmatic leaders from both major parties have spearheaded innovations like the Beach Bill and Bottle Bill. Measure 65 will motivate more citizens to vote and encourage the best to run for public office, regardless of their party."

During the many years that they served at SOLV, the McGowans worked alongside hundreds of thousands of Oregonians who are passionate about their state.  They saw firsthand how much concerned citizens want to be engaged in meaningful activities that preserve the best of Oregon. The McGowans see Measure 65 as the chance to give every Oregonian a voice who takes the time to register to vote.

“Right now, our system doesn’t give all voters the opportunity to elect the candidates of their choice in our primary elections.  Those who think a candidate in another party will do the best job have to give up their independence and change their party registration.  And then they lose the opportunity to vote for other candidates in their own party, because they can’tvote across party lines on the same ballot,” said Jan McGowan. “That’s not fair to our citizens and it isn’t consistent with the independent character of our state.”

Jack McGowan added, “That’s why we have joined thousands of other Oregonians from all across the state in supporting the fairness that would come with the passage of Ballot Measure 65.”

For more information on Measure 65, visit www.VoteYes65.com.

Contact:    Mary Ellen Glynn
503-241-2341

mglynn@voteyes65.com