Colin Meloy (The Decemberists), Thomas Lauderdale (Pink Martini), Stone Gossard (Pearl Jam), Michael Stipe (REM), Britt Daniel (Spoon), Chris Walla (Death Cab for Cutie), Krist Novoselic (Nirvana & Flipper), Dave Dederer (Presidents of the United States), Corin Tucker (Sleater-Kinney), Rufus Wainwright Co-Sign Letter of Support
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 10, 2008
Portland – Today Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate Steve Novick announced he had received the endorsement of several major musicians including Portland artists Colin Meloy of The Decemberists and Thomas Lauderdale of Pink Martini. In addition, the campaign announced a new fundraising program where supporters can receive tickets to an upcoming Pearl Jam performance along with their contribution to the campaign.
"I think we need a new kind of progressive leader in the U.S. Senate who isn't afraid to take on the tough issues," said Meloy. "Meeting with Steve, I was quite impressed with his command of the challenges we face and his candor about what it will take to turn this country around. I'm proud to give him my support."
Oregon's Senate race will be one of the most highly watched races in the country in 2008, with Senator Gordon Smith consistently identified as one of the most vulnerable incumbents up for reelection. Novick, a former environmental attorney and political activist, has pledged to replace a Senator who consistently votes with polluters, the Bush administration and the special interests, with a proven fighter who will stand up for the environment and working families.
The Novick campaign announced that supporters will also be able to receive a premium ticket to an upcoming East Coast performance by Pearl Jam along with their contribution to the campaign. The ticket blocks, made available to the campaign by the group, will include sell-out shows in New York, New Jersey and Washington D.C. Additional details on the tickets will be made available soon.
Meloy also announced that he will be officially re-registering as a Democrat to vote in the upcoming Oregon primary for Novick. The campaign's new "Register for Steve" program will encourage non-voters and voters not currently registered as Democrats to join the party and show their support for Steve in the primary election. Already, over 75 Oregonians have pledged register as a Democrat and vote for Steve.
Meloy plans to also work this election with Head Count, a national non-profit formed by artists, music industry professionals and fans to encourage voter registration and democratic participation. More information can be found at www.headcount.org
"I encourage everyone to get involved the elections happening across the country, regardless of who you support," said Meloy. "The issues are too important, the stakes are too high, to leave it to someone else to decide for you."
A copy of the artists' letter is attached to this release.
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