734 ADDRESSES AND STATE PAPERS

Control Administration that they would join in a $600, 000, two-year
study of the effects of thermal inputs in the Columbia River.

"Inasmuch as quite different conditions exist between estuaries and
rivers such as the Columbia, I urge that consideration be given to the
initiation of a similar study in the Chesapeake Bay, " he said in the
letter to Senator Muskie.

NEWS CONFERENCE
March 28, 1968

There was no opening statement by the Governor.

Questions and Answers
(Democratic Convention Court Suit)

Q. Governor, it may not concern you now, but do you have any
thoughts about the absence of a presidential primary here in Mary-
land — some of the difficulties it has brought upon the Democratic
Party?

A. Well, of course I am aware of the suit that's been filed in Mont-
gomery County and I am concerned about the impact on my own
party, because whatever ruling is made I would assume may have
some effect on the Republican Convention which is set for June.
We're watching it closely and we'll have to take whatever action is
necessary based on the outcome of the suit and the ruling of the
Court of Appeals. But, I don't want to make any judgments except
to say that from what I read of it, it doesn't sound like a frivolous
action — it seems like a legitimate point of contention. And it is a
legal question and we'll have to wait for the result.

Q. Would you say then that this might result in some rethinking
as to whether or not this State should have a presidential preference
primary?

A. I would say it's possible — yes.

Q. Do you think there will be one necessary this year if this court
decides against the Democratic Party?

A. Well, I'm not sure. I would have to wait and see what the deci-
sion says and how far it goes. The major point, as I understand it,
seems to be a one-time question of whether a central committee which