Constitution Party Expects Candidate to be Challenge For Saxton

Constitution Party says Saxton could face a real challenger, though they are't naming the individual yet Photo: Ron Saxton

(SALEM – AP) - Members of the Oregon Constitution Party say they have recruited a gubernatorial candidate who could spell trouble for Republican nominee Ron Saxton.

Party officials WON'T reveal the name of their candidate until midweek, a few days before their nominating convention in Lake Oswego.

But Constitution Party state chairman Bob Ekstrom says the candidate will make opposition to abortion a central campaign theme.

Saxton has said he supports abortion rights, but would also back some limits on the procedure, like parental notification.

The Constitution Party platform also stresses limited government and an official role for religion in public life.

Ekstrom says the nominee is NOT Lon Mabon, the anti-abortion rights activist who is the party's most prominent figure.