Oregon Public Broadcasting

Congressional candidate Joel Haugen withdrew his Republican nomination Friday, but will remain in the race. That's because Haugen has also been endorsed by the Independent Party of Oregon. Ethan Lindsey reports.

Haugen says he can stay registered as a Republican while running as an Independent to represent Oregon's First District.

But a Marion county judge ruled he can only appear on the ballot under one party label.

In response, Haugen says he withdrew his Republican nomination, and will campaign as a candidate of the Independent Party of Oregon.

The timing of Haugen's announcement is late enough that the Republicans can no longer put another name on the ballot.

Joel Haugen: “One, I didn't make the decision until a conversation with the Independent Party. And then secondly, why would you add competition to the ballot when you are trying to get elected. You know, I'm not a professional politician. It may be an error, I can't say.”

According to the Secretary of State's web site,  voters in the First District congressional race will be able to choose among Democrat David Wu, Haugen, and candidates from the Green, Constitution, and Libertarian parties.