Council Workers’ Union Complaint Alleges Loretta Smith Fired Staffer in Retaliation for Union Organizing

The newly-formed Council Alliance of Workers union is calling on city councilors to uphold their commitment to labor rights in their own workplaces.

"Racist, Dehumanizing": Chat Images Show Portland Power Players Disparaging Councilors of Color 

Messages obtained by the Mercury contain a slew of offensive tropes sent during a council president election.

"Sometimes Criminals Get Shot": Portland Police Officer Defends Minnesota Shooting of Renee Good

Portland cop pulled from protest duty after remarks, while the Police Bureau reviews another incident involving an officer punching a protester during an arrest.

After Border Patrol Agent Shoots Two People In Portland, Oregon AG Vows to Investigate

Update: Homeland Security identifies man and woman shot and injured during an encounter with immigration agents in East Portland. Oregon officials are imploring DHS to leave the state.

Update: Still No Council President After Full Day of Deliberation and Votes 

Public awaits zephyr of white smoke from council chambers announcing who holds the gavel in 2026

New Lawsuit Seeks $1.18 Million For Man Imprisoned For an Overdose Death That Never Happened 

Man who pleaded guilty to drug charges says he served a full prison sentence that was based on false information about a fatal overdose.

Mayor to Force Some Homeless Portlanders from Alternative Shelters in February

Wilson says people living in city-run alternative shelters need incentives to move from shelter to housing. The city and county are already overwhelmed.

Hundreds of Portlanders Protest US Attack on Venezuela

Protesters took to the streets as part of an "emergency" national day of action against Trump’s unauthorized strikes and abduction of Venezuela’s leader. 

Oregon’s New ID Scanning Law: What Changed on January 1

Retailers can now swipe everyone’s license for age-restricted purchases. Here’s what that means for your privacy.

The Mercury's Best Photos of 2025

Portland protests, swims in the river, and dons costumes across all concievable occasions.

Despite DOJ Intervention, Portland Police are Still Killing People in Mental Health Crisis

A grand jury declined to indict officers who used deadly restraint on a man with schizophrenia in June. His family is weighing legal options.

Immigrant Rights Groups Allege Multnomah County Jail is Violating Sanctuary Laws

A lawsuit claims the US Marshals Service is using local jails to hold detainees for immigration enforcement.

One of Portland’s Few Black-Owned Music Venues is Facing Eviction

The Heights owner claims predatory lease terms left him in default. His landlord says payments were missed even after a rent reduction. 

“We Want the Same Protections”: TriMet Safety Staff Announce Union Effort

They work to keep passengers safe, but say they are not afforded the rights of regular TriMet employees.

372 Multnomah County Residents Died While Homeless in 2024

Multnomah County's Domicile Unknown report shows 18% decline in homeless deaths from 2023 to 2024. Overdose, transportation, assault are main contributors.

Portland Students Walk Out of Class to Protest ICE Activity

Lincoln High School students marched from their campus to City Hall, where they rallied against recent abductions and deaths in ICE custody.

City Council Staff Form New Labor Union

Citing a desire for clear job descriptions, a cap on weekly hours worked, and greater stability for the city, Council office employees form new Council Alliance of Workers. 

Drive-Thru Debacle Threatens to Keep Historic Dairy Queen in a Deep Freeze

A franchisee has been duking it out with the city over his right to keep a drive-thru at an ice cream shop on SE Division.

City Council May Investigate Administration Over Hidden Bureau Funds

Councilor Mitch Green files resolution calling for oversight hearings after city leaders learned of $21 million in unspent Housing Bureau revenue

Strike Averted: New Seasons Grocery Workers Secure First Labor Contract

After threatening to strike, unionized workers voted Monday to ratify a contract with increased wages and better health insurance protections.

Legacy Staff and Nurses Union Say Hospital Policies Harm Immigrants

Staff at Legacy Emanuel hospital say Legacy policies may violate patient privacy and the code of ethics they swore to uphold.

“We’re Investing for the Long Term”: How the Future of Portland’s Historic Albina District is Coming Together

The 1803 Fund is dedicating $70 million to Albina redevelopment amid a broader period of investment in Portland’s historically Black district.

Multnomah County Plans Major Surge in Free Preschool Enrollment Next School Year

The county says it’s on track to nearly double the amount of children currently enrolled in its Preschool for All program.

Raymond Lee Confirmed as Portland’s First Long-Term City Administrator

City leaders celebrate a “new chapter” for Portland government, seek to rebuild damaged trust

Local Homelessness Prevention Could See $21 Million Funding Bump

Housing Committee’s “Slow the Inflow” resolution to avert new homelessness heads to full Council

Portland Police Officer Arrested on Domestic Violence Charges

Jimmy Pryce, a 27-year employee at Portland Police Bureau, faces a criminal trial in Clackamas County.

Legacy Health Staff Say They’ll Stay on Strike Until Company Offers Better Deal 

Clinicians say their pay hasn’t kept pace with wages at other local health care systems as the two sides begin mediation.  

Amid Grim Outlook for National Climate Investments, Portland’s Clean Energy Fund Doles Out Nearly $64 Million

PCEF awarded grants to 59 local nonprofits for climate projects. The news comes as the well-endowed program is at risk of being tapped for other city priorities.

Former Housing Director Says She Was Told Not to Disclose Millions in Unspent Funds 

A memo Helmi Hisserich sent to city councilors says city administration viewed unspent funds as "a big PR problem."

City Council Puts Financial Crackdown On Detention Facilities

Portland City Council approved a new fee to recoup costs associated with detention facilities, both for impacted Portlanders and for the city’s coffers.

Mayor Wilson Nominates New City Administrator

Raymond Lee previously managed Greeley, Colorado before leaving recently to ‘pursue new opportunities.’ 

Portland-Area Starbucks Baristas Remain on Strike Over Labor Contract, Wage Disputes

Nationwide, unionized baristas say the company has failed to negotiate fair terms as the coffee chain racks up labor violations and complaints.

Oregon Sues Trump’s USDA Over Yanked SNAP Benefits for Refugees

Attorney General Dan Rayfield and 21 states ask district court to reinstate Green Card holders’ eligibility for benefits.

Oregon to Feds: Rein in Your Officers or We'll Prosecute

Top state attorney says his office will investigate federal officers’ criminal conduct during protests and immigration enforcement

Oregon's Dismantling of Longstanding Houseless Encampment Highlights Broader Problems

For a decade, residents lived in the Sandy River Delta wilderness. Last month, they were forced out, sending dozens of people to the streets and back into a system that has already failed them.

Proposed Detention Center Fee Yields Hostile City Council Meeting

Anti-ICE activists say the proposed code change falls short. Supporters say it could help prevent new ICE facilities and recoup ongoing costs.

Portlanders Gather to Mourn and Demand Action on Day of Remembrance for Traffic Crash Victims

People who lost loved ones to traffic violence gathered Sunday at an annual event to honor the lives lost, and encourage others to take action to save lives.

Portland City Council Votes to Adopt AI Rental Price-Fixing Software Ban

The proposal to ban algorithmic rental pricing software underwent several revisions to protect the city from lawsuits. City Council approved the ordinance, despite resistance from a few holdouts.

City Narrows Search For Portland’s Next Top Bureaucrat

The city announced three finalists to serve as its next city administrator. Michael Jordan will retire at the end of the year.

With a Tenuous Ceasefire in Gaza, Portland Councilors Pledge to Investigate the City's Links to Israel

Councilors say that a lack of action from US Congress has forced them to think locally to stop the flow of weapons and military aid to Israel. 

Appeals Court Rules in Favor of Environmental Advocates in Zenith Energy Lawsuit

Environmental advocates celebrated the procedural win, saying the Land Use Board of Appeals has a better grasp on complicated land use policy

Amid Months of Contentious Bargaining, PSU Adjunct Union Wins Unfair Labor Practice Case 

A state board found PSU violated labor law by withholding benefit funds from adjunct union members. The incident has shaken the trust of many adjunct faculty as the union works on their next contract.

Portland Budget Tweak Causes Heated Discussion on Homelessness

A failed amendment to put homeless sweeps funding toward rent aid brought fiery testimony from Portlanders. Mayor Wilson’s office lit the match.

Transportation Funding Bill Opponents Launch Last-Ditch Effort to Halt Tax Increases

Governor Tina Kotek signed a transportation package into law Monday. The same day, a group of opponents filed a petition to refer the bill's tax increases back to Oregon voters, hoping they’ll reject them. 

Sweating Out the Fascism With Anti-ICE Aerobics

Portland’s absurdist protest tactics continued with people emulating aerobics instructor/activist Jane Fonda outside the ICE facility.

Workers at Moda Center Renew Concerns Over Self-Serve Alcohol Sales

Levy Restaurants employees say management is not doing enough to abide by OLCC rules.

PSU Fired Women’s Resource Center Director With No Explanation

The abrupt termination sparked internal upheaval and fears about PSU’s commitment to feminist and student-centered work.

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.