Gov. Gregoire�s statement on Russell Investment Group

For Immediate Release: September 9, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement on the announcement by Russell Investment Group that the company will be moving its headquarters from Tacoma to Seattle:

�I am delighted that Russell has decided to stay in the state of Washington, ensuring that those important jobs remain in the Northwest. I certainly understand the disappointment of the Tacoma community. I know the city did an outstanding job of presenting its case. Russell Investment Group has been a major employer in Pierce County, and has played an integral role in shaping downtown Tacoma. After talking with Russell CEO Andrew Doman, I respect this was a difficult business decision, and wish the company continued success at its new location.�