Former Oregon Statesman of the Year endorses Betsy Close

by NW Spotlight

Albany, OR – Former State Senator and long-time community leader Frank Morse has endorsed Senator Betsy Close (R-Albany/Corvallis) as the best candidate to represent Senate District 8.

“Betsy Close has the experience, compassion and perspective to serve our community and help bring prosperity to working families,” said Morse. “She is tenacious and will be a fierce advocate for us. She deserves the trust of voters in Senate District 8.”

Frank Morse was elected to represent Senate District 8 in the State Legislature three times. He served as President and CEO of Morse Bros. Inc, a leading Oregon construction materials company. As a Senator, Morse became known for his willingness to reach across the aisle and find common ground, and to fearlessly tackle the toughest issues facing Oregon. When he left office he was lauded as a humble and pragmatic leader who selflessly helped lead Oregon with common sense and fairness.

The Oregon Business Association honored Morse in 2007 with its prestigious Statesman of the Year award.

“I’m honored to have the support of a leader like Frank Morse,” said Close. “He served in the State Senate with integrity and forthrightness. We share a vision for Oregon that offers opportunity and success for families across the state. I’m proud that he would endorse my candidacy.

Starting in 1999, Close served for six years as a State Representative in the Oregon House of Representatives. She was Chairwoman of the House Water & Environment Committee and House Business, Labor, and Consumer Affairs; and Co-Chair of the Joint Natural Resources Committee. She served in leadership as Assistant Majority Leader from 2001 to 2005. She was appointed to fill Frank Morse’s seat in the Oregon State Senate in 2012.