in 1978, martin decided not to run for another term in the oregon house of representative. instead, he ran for governor. he faced former governor tom mccall and state senator victor atiyeh in the republican primary. in his campaign, martin highlighted his business background and experience as a leader in the state legislature. he emphasized his ability to craft common sense solutions for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of state government without raising taxes. here is what martin said in the primary election voters' pamphlet: