| Press Release |
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| March 13, 2008 |
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Governor Kulongoski Announces Plans to Appoint Brad Avakian Labor Commissioner
The state Senator will replace Dan Gardner who is taking a new job in Washington D.C.
Salem –Governor Ted Kulongoski today announced that he plans to appoint state Senator Brad Avakian to the position of State Labor Commissioner. The appointment will follow the resignation of current Labor Commissioner Dan Gardner. Commissioner Gardner announced his plans to resign to take a position with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in Washington D.C.
“Brad shares my vision that we must invest in our citizens, that we must give all Oregonians a chance at success at a time where our economy is facing global competition and that our approach must be driven by innovation,” said Governor Kulongoski. “I believe there is no better person to lead this agency and the work that it does than Brad Avakian.”
Senator Avakian was first elected to the Oregon House in 2002 and was re-elected in 2004. He was elected to the state Senate in 2006. He earned a law degree from Lewis and Clark College and started a labor and civil rights law practice in 1990 where he tried cases involving discrimination claims in employment and housing. Senator Avakian also chairs the Oregon Business Leadership Network, which helps people with disabilities find employment. During his time in the legislature, Senator Avakian has been a leader on civil rights and workforce legislation, helping advance economic development efforts in Oregon.
“Brad’s experience as a labor and civil rights lawyer and his commitment to expanding economic and educational opportunities to all of our citizens will prove to be a seamless fit for this office,” said Governor Kulongoski.
With the timing of the resignation and appointment, the Office of Labor Commissioner will be on the November 2008 ballot.
Contact:
Anna Richter Taylor, 503-378-6169
Rem Nivens, 503-378-6496
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