Open primary measure fails in Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - A campaign to throw Oregon's state primary elections open to independents and members of any political party failed Tuesday.

With 37 percent of the vote counted Tuesday night, 65 percent of voters rejected the measure and 35 percent supported it.

Measure 65 called for changing Oregon's primary system so that members of a particular party no longer had the sole voice in choosing their candidates. Any registered voter would get a ballot with all the candidates, regardless of party. The two candidates with the most votes would advance to the general election.

Former Secretary of State Phil Keisling was a prime supporter, arguing open primaries would give independent voters and members of minor parties a stronger voice.

Former Gov. Barbara Roberts was a prime opponent, saying states where it has been tried saw low turnouts.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)