Editor’s note: The following editorial originally appeared in the Aug. 11, 1909 edition of what was then called The Bend Bulletin.

Let there be no misunderstanding about the matter. If the people of Oregon wish to give up the direct primary and go back to the old convention system of nominating candidates for office, all well and good. But let’s have done with all this folderol about holding “assemblies” as a part of and as an aid and improvement to, the direct primary.

What is the assembly plan? It is a system being proposed by some of Oregon’s politicians whereby delegates shall gather in the convention prior to the date for holding the primary nominating election, and “suggest” or “recommend” that the people nominate this and that man for this and that office. Then at the primary, the people may accept this suggestion of recommendation, or they may reject it if they do not like the men recommended.

Looks simple and fair, doesn’t it? But in a short time, it would do away with absolutely with direct nominations by the people…. If the people are of the opinion that the direct primary is not giving satisfaction, then perhaps they are ready to go back to the old system.