Federal Judge Rules Against Trump, Barring Him from Deploying National Guard to Oregon

The long-awaited ruling, likely to be appealed, dismissed the administration’s case for sending the National Guard to Portland based on protests outside the city’s ICE facility. 

City Council Mulling $4.3 Million Cut From Homeless Sweeps Budget

Angelita Morillo proposed an amendment reallocating money from a city sweeps program, instead funding housing and food assistance, support for immigrants

Portlander Recounts Experience in Israeli Detention Center 

Paul Reid was among several activists whose boats were intercepted by Israeli military forces while traveling with the Global Sumud Flotilla.

City Council Caught in the Middle of Police Oversight Labor Strike 

Councilors are avoiding City Hall while Portland's Independent Police Review staff are on strike, bringing some Council operations to a halt. 

Slated to Open in 2027, Monqui and AEG's New Venue Has Broken Ground at Lloyd Center

Can you dig it, Portland? Yes we can!

Portlanders Say "Yes" to Parks Levy in Early Special Election Results 

The levy would help fund Portland Parks & Recreation services. If not approved, the bureau would face a major budget shortfall.

“Not a Rubber Stamp”: Portland City Council Questions Settlement in Bike Bill Lawsuit 

The plaintiffs and city attorney expected quick agreement over a $6 million settlement. It appears City Council had other ideas.

Man Suspected of Starting Fire Near City Councilor’s Home Arrested

Police say the man lit a fire near a shed to stay warm. It then spread to nearby structures.

Councilor Dan Ryan Breaks From Colleagues, Says “No” to Parks Levy

Ryan, who previously served as the commissioner in charge of Portland’s parks bureau, voted in July to refer the parks levy measure to voters. He now says he can’t support it. 

Multnomah County Pauses New Housing Vouchers After Losing State Funding

As Mayor Wilson pushes for more shelter beds, county resources for moving people to permanent housing are dwindling

Judge: No National Guard in Oregon, For Now

Buying herself more time to fully review evidence, US district judge issued a preliminary injunction maintaining status quo until a final opinion is issued on November 7.

Portland Responds to SNAP Shutdown Delays and Funding Cuts: Resources to Use and Support

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program dollars are delayed. These organizations, markets, restaurants, and cafes are trying to fill people's plates.

Mayor Wilson Puts Portland Housing Bureau Director On Leave

Social housing expert Helmi Hisserich has been the Bureau’s director since 2024, but Wilson remains ‘laser focused’ on temporary overnight shelters

City of Portland Begins Enforcement of ‘Public Camping’ Rules This Weekend

The same day federal SNAP benefits expire for over 15,000 homeless Multnomah County residents, Mayor Wilson piles on penalties for being homeless in Portland.

Fundraiser for City Councilor Displaced by Fire Creates Legal Complexity 

An outpouring of donations flowed in for a District 1 councilor after a catastrophe, but state rules complicate things for public officials on the receiving end. 

Trump Stymied Again; Appeals Court Will Rehear Oregon’s National Guard Deployment Case

The 9th Circuit Court's decision will prevent any troops from deploying for now. A trial in Oregon’s case starts Wednesday.

Introducing the Portland Mercury’s Newest Reporter, Jeremiah Hayden!

UPDATE: National Guard Deployment Paused Again in Oregon, as Appellate Judges Decide How to Proceed

A district judge was expected to rule whether to allow out-of-state troops to deploy to Portland. Then, in a Friday twist, an appeals court temporarily halted any deployments until October 29. 

Mercury Endorsement: Vote Yes on the Portland Parks Levy

Portland parks are on the ballot in this November's special election. 

Trail Blazers' Head Coach Chauncey Billups Arrested in Connection to Mafia-Backed Illegal Gambling 

The latest details and what it means for the young team's coming season.

The 'Big Beautiful Bill' is Gutting Oregon’s SNAP Benefits

Sweeping eligibility changes take effect this month. Meanwhile, the government shutdown could leave hundreds of thousands of recipients with no benefits at all in November.

Update: Oregon Calls For New Hearing After Appeals Court Rules National Guard Can Deploy to Portland

In a 2-1 decision, the 9th Circuit Court says the president has authority to deploy the military to Portland, amid ongoing protests at the ICE facility. The Oregon Attorney General's Office wants the case reheard.

November’s Special Election Will Determine the Future of Portland Parks

Portlanders are being asked to approve a new, increased parks levy to fund the city’s parks system. If the measure doesn’t pass, the city will be forced to make major cuts.

 On No Kings Weekend, Chants, Inflatable Costumes, and Tear Gas Shroud Portland ICE Facility 

Following a massive anti-Trump march, hundreds gathered to protest hostile immigration enforcement and violent policing.

Photo Essay: Tens of Thousands March in Portland’s No Kings Demonstration

More than 40,000 Portlanders turn out to march against authoritarian policies of President Trump

Portland City Council is Using City Codes to Fight Back Against Trump

A new ordinance will bolster local sanctuary law while a resolution aims to strengthen protections for immigrants and protesters.

A Night of Terror: Civil Disobedience Met With Extreme Force at Portland ICE Facility 

Federal agents brutalized press and protesters, firing repeated crowd control munitions during weekend protests.

UPDATE: Judge Extends Restraining Order Blocking National Guard Deployment in Oregon

US District Judge Karin Immergut ruled October 15 that a restraining order issued earlier this month will be extended by two weeks.

Meet the Groups Helping Immigrants Impacted by ICE

A statewide rapid response network is coordinating to alert communities about immigration enforcement and provide legal resources.

Portland's Emergency World Naked Bike Ride Location Released

"This ride is clothing optional." organizers say. "It’s your choice how much or little you wear."

ICE Targets Chicago’s Homeless Community

Plus, law enforcement attempts to stifle free speech, and barring the feds from making arrests at the county courthouse.

Portland-Area Kaiser Permanente Workers Could Strike as Soon as Next Week

Thousands of employees voted to strike if the health care workers can’t reach a labor agreement with Kaiser before Tuesday.

Portland City Attorney to US DOJ: “Please Do Not Fail America”

City’s legal team says federal police are brutalizing protesters, and the government is weaponizing its longstanding settlement agreement with the city.

Frustrated by Court Loss, Trump Sends 300 California National Guard Troops to Portland

One hundred members of the California National Guard have reportedly arrived already, with more to follow. A lawsuit to stop the move is already underway.

Federal Judge Grants Restraining Order Blocking Trump From Deploying Troops to Portland

Judge says Trump administration violated Constitution and failed to provide proof that National Guard activation was necessary.

Portland Children’s Levy Funds Set to Be Disbursed After City Halted, Then Restored Grant Recommendations 

City councilors caused a stir by pausing funding recommendations in June, citing concerns with the application scoring process. The levy is a lifeline for many BIPOC organizations.

Portland Police Will Continue Patrols at ICE Protests, Despite Restrictions on Overtime Spending

Records show PPB spent $875K to monitor protests at Portland’s ICE facility in June, before City Council directed the Bureau to redirect its use of overtime hours.

“Antifa Hellfire”: Amid Local Uncertainty, White House Attempts to Justify National Guard Invasion of Portland 

Trump released a new memo setting his intentions to “crush” Portland’s “radical left.” Oregon leaders hope a lawsuit will prevent National Guard troops from deploying.

"Secretary of War" Pete Hegseth Issues Order to Activate Oregon National Guard in Portland

The order, which Hegseth said should be "effective immediately" calls for 200 guard members and is designed to stay in place for 60 days. 

What to Expect After Trump Threatens to Send Additional Troops to “War Ravaged” Portland

The president issued a new warning to Portland on Saturday morning—one that is sure to face legal challenges.

City Leaders Say Trump Administration Has Sent Influx of Federal Agents to Portland

Trump has apparently followed through on his threat to send federal officers to Portland. Local leaders are urging Portlanders to keep their responses cool. 

It’s Been 10 Years Since Portland Adopted Vision Zero. What’s Changed?

Portland has struggled to address the rising traffic fatalities on city streets. Leaders are now hoping for a Vision Zero renaissance. 

Portlanders Join Flotilla Aiming to Break Israel's Blockade of Aid to Gaza

A Global Sumud Flotilla coalition is headed to Gaza with hopes of delivering much-needed supplies and food. Local residents say they’ve already been hit with drone attacks.

Seattle Area Trans Women Are Being Attacked by Groups of Men

Portland bias crime data shows similar trends, with LGBTQ+ people at higher risk of assault by men.

UPDATED: ICE Violated Portland Policies with Detention Practices, City Leaders Say

ICE held detainees longer than allowed by the conditions of its land use permit. Portland plans to issue the agency a land use violation notice this week.

Sen. Merkley: US Aid Fuels Israel’s Ethnic Cleansing of Palestine

Following a recent trip to Israel and the West Bank, Oregon senator says US and its allies have a moral obligation to stop providing military support for the war in Gaza

Zenith Energy Legal Fight Highlights Gaps in Portland’s Environmental Guardrails

Climate activists say the city has little authority to enforce restrictions it imposed on a controversial oil transport operation.

PSU Sheds Staff After Expedited Return-To-Office Requirement

With rapid changes to in-person work policies in pursuit of a more “vibrant” campus, some PSU employees say they've been left behind.

Elected Officials, Advocates Urge Oregon’s Congressional Delegation to “Block the Bombs” to Israel

Local lawmakers want Oregon’s US representatives to support a legislative effort to curtail spending in Israel amid its ongoing siege on Gaza.

Eviction of Disabled Veteran Halted After Intervention From Neighbors and a City Councilor

A 68-year-old man in Northwest Portland was served an eviction notice for unpaid rent he says he didn't know he owed.

Update: Oregon Lawmakers Make Another Go at a Transportation Funding Package

The bill, expected to raise roughly $4.5 billion over the next 10 years, was approved by the Oregon House and will now move onto the Senate—after a hiatus. 

A Month Before Classes Resume, University of Oregon Faculty Brace for More Layoffs

Despite a recent $25 million gift from the Schnitzer family, Oregon’s flagship university warns of a funding shortage and a second round of layoffs.

Workers in Portland’s Independent Police Investigation Unit Authorize a Strike

The complaint investigation unit says the city’s new voter-approved police oversight system could leave them jobless.

Despite State Transportation Funding Crisis, Construction Begins on I-5 Rose Quarter Project

As legislators prepare to duke it out over transportation funding in a special session this week, ODOT has quietly broken ground on the first phase of the $2.1 billion freeway project.

Updated: County Declares Emergency as Portland Faces Dangerous, Extended Heat Wave

Multnomah County will open two daytime cooling centers and extend hours at three libraries. 

County Commissioner’s Staffer Fired After Scrutiny Over Political Activity

Communications manager Vikki Payne left Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards' office in early August, after taking heat for actions involving a PAC she oversaw.

With a New Media Conglomerate on the Scene, Oregon’s News Landscape is Shrinking

Carpenter Media’s purchase of Pamplin and EO Media Groups has been marked by labor fights, layoffs, and the discontinuation of a Portland print edition in a series of cost-cutting efforts.

Updated: The Willamette River is Swimmable Again, Health Officials Say

The Oregon Health Authority has lifted its advisory against recreating on the river, issued last week due to a toxic algae bloom.

Portland's Most Effective Channel For Addressing Community Concerns is a Back Door

The city's Public Environment Management Office runs frequent community meetings and gets quick results. You just might not know about it. 

The Lawsuit that Broke the Council’s Back

How nearly $4 million in wrongful death and bodily injury settlements united Portland City Council in calling for a culture shift within the Police Bureau.

Daytime Cooling Centers Reopen In Portland Tuesday Amid Extreme Heat Wave 

Multnomah County declared a state of emergency due to prolonged high temps. Three cooling sites will stay open until 9 pm Tuesday, with libraries open until 8 pm.

For a Glimpse Into Portland's Thriving Future, Look to the River

After years of dedicated advocacy, Portland is getting on board with being a “swimmable city.”

Recent In-Custody Death Reignites Calls For a Police-Free Crisis Response System 

Portland Police Bureau says it wants another agency to take over calls involving behavioral health. The region already has one that police rarely use.

Portland Mayor Mandates Compliance With Trump Policies in Effort to Retain Federal Funds 

Mayor Keith Wilson issued an executive order halting some DEI programs as the federal government threatens to withhold millions from jurisdictions that don't comply. Lawyers estimate 75 city programs will be impacted.

Supporters Pack Courtroom for Portlander Facing Federal Protest Charges

After weeks of surveillance, the FBI showed up to arrest Jacob Hoopes at gunpoint six weeks after his alleged offenses at a Portland ICE protest.

Palestine Supporters Walk Out of Regina Spektor’s Portland Show

Spektor reacted strongly when a pro-Palestine protester interrupted the show at Revolution Hall. Then, others were asked to leave for expressing support for Gaza.

“There Is No Money”: I-5 Rose Quarter Project Slated for August Groundbreaking, Budget Woes and All

ODOT has permission to start initial work on the freeway expansion project, but state transportation leaders say there isn’t enough money to finish it.

TriMet Announces Major Service Cuts Starting This Fall

Portland’s public transit agency was already in a dire financial situation. The Oregon Legislature's failure to pass a transportation funding bill didn't help.

Can an AI Goliath Help Oregon Stay Competitive in the Tech Industry?

As Gov. Kotek throws $10M at Nvidia for AI training in universities, academics urge a realistic, judicious approach to the evolving technology.

Amid Statewide Funding Crisis, Portland Looks to New Transportation Revenue Streams

This isn’t the first time the city has tried to find new, sustainable ways to fund transportation and infrastructure. But there may be increased urgency now.

Portland City Councilor Hires, Then Immediately Fires Controversial Local Podcaster 

Andy Chandler, an anti-"woke" online commentator, was recently tapped by Councilor Dan Ryan’s team to do video work. Ryan’s office says Chandler is no longer on staff.

State and Federal Losses Stack Up for ODOT’s I-5 Rose Quarter Plan

As funding and legal woes mount for ODOT, a plan to reconnect the Albina neighborhood is caught in the middle.

Body Camera Footage Shows Damon Lamarr Johnson Died While Restrained By Police 

Police chief, city councilor amplify calls for alternative crisis response system after another Black man, suffering a mental health crisis, dies in police custody.

“A Loss for Society”: Friends and Family Honor “Folk Hero” Mike O’Callaghan, Who Died Last Month

O’Callaghan, an eccentric, “unique thinker,” ran to be the mayor of Portland twice, and was a fixture in many advocacy circles.

With Federal Grants on the Line, Portland Leaders Weigh Whether to Comply With Trump's Anti-DEI Directives

City administrator says Portland currently relies on $387 million in federal grants. The city stands to lose federal money if it doesn't slash its equity-focused programs.

Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Faces Lawsuit Over Forced Hijab Removals

Two Muslim women arrested last year after a protest were forced to remove their hijabs and were photographed in front of men. A new lawsuit alleges jail deputies violated the women's civil rights.

Shoofly Vegan Bakery Staff Cease Efforts to Buy the Business, Starting Their Own Instead

Amid paycheck disputes and a staff walkout that shuttered the SE Portland cafe, former Shoofly workers say they've signed a lease on a new space.

Asylum Seekers Are Being Arrested During Mandatory ICE Check-Ins

A Portland-area man with a family and work visa received a text ordering him to report to ICE. He was detained and sent to Tacoma, with no release date in sight.

Preschool for All Advocates Put Kotek and State Legislators on Notice

When Salem lawmakers moved to gut Multnomah County’s preschool tax, program supporters jumped to its defense. Their efforts seem to have worked—for now.

A Crisis of Crisis Lines for America's Queer Youth

LGBTQ+ youth are reaching out to the national suicide and crisis line more than ever. What happens if Trump cuts the line?

Police, Prosecutors Seek to Limit Access to Police Personnel Files During Trials

Portland Police Bureau says a current directive goes beyond federal requirements for evidence disclosure. Defense attorneys warn a change would allow cops to gatekeep which information about them gets released.

As Anti-ICE Fight Grows, Advocates Are Divided About Portland Facility

Almost 15,000 people have signed a petition asking City Council to revoke ICE’s Portland building permit. Others say the move would backfire.

Oregon Bill Expanding Police Use of Drones Without Warrants Alarms Civil Rights Advocates 

Despite concerns over privacy and civil rights violations, lawmakers are backing an effort to reduce legal hurdles for police surveillance via drones.

Portland ER Nurse Shot by Federal Agents at ICE Protest Plans to Return: “I’ll Be Out There Again”

Even after he was nearly blinded by a “less lethal” projectile, Vincent Hawkins wants to be heard.

Portland Rises Up Against Trump and ICE with Two Saturday Protests

A massive march for “No Kings” day, followed by arrests at Portland’s ICE headquarters.

UPDATED: Following Massive Daytime Downtown "No Kings" March, Protesters Gassed at ICE Facility

Feds also fired less-lethal munitions at the crowd as Portland Police declared a riot.

Recent Portland Police Actions at ICE Facility Test the Limits of Sanctuary Laws 

As anti-ICE protests escalate in Portland, state leaders call for peaceful protest, but confusion over police involvement lingers.

Staff at PeaceHealth Southwest Say Job Cuts Could Backfire

The health care provider is slashing 1% of its workforce. Impacted employees say it will only strain the hospital system and prolong patient stays.

With Newfound Sway in City Hall, Portland’s Democratic Socialists Hope to Redefine the City’s Priorities

Amid a local budget crisis and national chaos, Portland DSA has big goals. For the first time, it also has a group of allies on City Council. 

UPDATE: "We Do Not Consent": Sweep at Thousand Acres Removes Longtime Unhoused Community

State contractors used pepper spray on people while removing an encampment along the Sandy River delta. The situation highlights pitfalls in Oregon's approach to chronic homelessness.

Police Bureau Terminates Consulting Contract With Former Employee 

Citing budget constraints, Portland’s police chief says he's ending two contracts after questions from the Mercury about potential cronyism.

What Will It Take to Thwart Trump’s Assault on Democracy?

As the US hurtles toward fascism, some urge Americans to resist en masse.

Amended Budget Approval Underscores Rifts Among Portland City Councilors 

Councilor Steve Novick says community centers are off the chopping block after Council agreed to divert $2M from police to parks. 

Updated May 2025 Special Election Results: Portland School Bond Finds Victory With Voters

After a surge of ballots received on Election Day, Multnomah County reports 25 percent voter turnout as of Thursday.

Power Moves: A Community Organization is Calling the Shots in One of Portland’s Oldest Neighborhoods

The Old Town Community Association has been a key driver of development and investment in Old Town. Much of it comes with financial gain to its members. 

City Councilors Advocate for Tenants in Old Town Affordable Housing

Councilors Mitch Green and Candace Avalos say a small budget adjustment could help tenants stay in their homes.

At This Cully Church, an Unwanted Parking Lot Is Now a Garden Refuge

Portland nonprofit Depave led the effort to transform a slab of blacktop behind a church into a thriving green space. The city's zoning code didn't make it easy. 

It's Election Eve. Have You Voted Yet?

Multnomah County residents have until 8 pm Tuesday, May 20 to get their ballots dropped off.

After Manufacturer Backlash, DEQ Delays Clean Truck Rule

Enforcement of the Advanced Clean Truck rule, intended to reduce diesel emissions in Oregon, has been delayed until 2027.