News Releases
Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 30, 2003
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke to Call Special Session to Cancel Non-Binding Primary

Gov. Gary Locke told legislative leaders late today that he will call a special session for Friday, Dec. 5, to pass legislation to cancel the non-binding 2004 presidential primary.

The governor said that the presidential primary election is not needed next year since neither party will use the results in nominating a presidential candidate in 2004.

The Democratic Party chooses its candidates through party caucuses, and does not use the results of the primary. Republicans choose only a portion of its delegates through primaries, but the nomination of President Bush is a foregone conclusion.

"Canceling the non-biding presidential primary will save the taxpayers more than $7 million," Locke said. "It makes no sense to spend taxpayer money on an election that serves no practical purpose. This money can instead be used to help fund essential programs."

The governor said a special session is needed because waiting until January would not result in the same savings. County auditors must begin preparations for the primary before the Legislature meets in regular session. The auditors estimate that they will have spent more than $3 million in preparations before January.

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