(May 18, 2016) - The Humane Society Legislative Fund, the nation's leading political advocacy organization for animal welfare, congratulates Brad Avakian on his victory in the Democratic primary election for Oregon Secretary of State.
During his tenure in the Oregon state legislature, Brad had a strong record on protecting animals. He supported legislation that ended canned hunts and internet hunting as well as increased penalties for dog fighting.
“As a former legislator, we know Brad to always be open to our concerns on animal welfare and on numerous occasions delivered his vote for their protection and welfare,” said Joe Maxwell, senior political director of the HSLF.
Avakian overcame two Democratic primary challengers to secure his victory and will now face the Republican candidate in the Nov. 8 general election.
HSLF had mounted an independent expenditure campaign, including TV ads, opposing Avakian’s primary opponent, Val Hoyle. As House Majority Leader, Hoyle blocked legislation that would have banned the trade in elephant ivory and rhino horn to crack down on the rampant poaching of these majestic creatures, and she supported weakening the state’s protections for bears, cougars, and wolves.
Media Contact: Stephanie Twining, stwining@hslf.org, 301-258-1491
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The Humane Society Legislative Fund is a social welfare organization incorporated under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code and formed in 2004 as a separate lobbying affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States. The HSLF works to pass animal protection laws at the state and federal level, to educate the public about animal protection issues, and to support humane candidates for office. Visit us on all our channels: on the web at hslf.org, on our blog at animalsandpolitics.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/humanelegislation and on Twitter at twitter.com/HSLegFund.
