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.

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

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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

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

The Mercury's May 2025 Election Endorsements

Our top picks for the May 20 Special District Election, featuring school board seats, public school bonds, and more! 

Update: PSU Says Pressure From City Councilor Didn't Influence Decision to Drop Penalties Against Student Protesters

After Councilor Mitch Green made controversial threats to withhold city funding for Portland State University over its handling of pro-Palestine voices, students received letters of dropped charges. 

At a Massive “Hands Off” Rally, Portlanders Protest Trump From All Angles 

On April 5, protesters took to the streets in cities across the US. Portland’s event showed the diversity of opinions in the anti-Trump movement. 

Oregon Senate Bill Aims to Address Greenwashing

The bill has been criticized as overly broad and difficult to enforce, but environmental advocates say truthful marketing is crucial to addressing the climate crisis.

Portland Protesters Rally for “Tesla Takedown”

As Tesla stocks tumble, hundreds of people are holding regular protests outside the Portland dealership to protest Elon Musk’s government takeover.

What ICE Can and Cannot Do in Oregon As Trump Targets Immigrants

Portland joins sanctuary city lawsuit against Trump administration as Oregon agencies reaffirm federal policing restrictions

As Oregonians Take to the Streets to Protest Trump Policies, Oregon’s Attorney General is Turning to the Courts

Oregon has signed on to five multi-state lawsuits challenging recent presidential executive orders on birthright citizenship, DOGE, federal funding, and health care. 

City Council Solidifies New Policy Committees

The eight committees will be the primary conduit for public engagement and policy proposals from councilors. 

Portland City Council Increases Its Staffing Budget by $4.6 Million

Citing poor policy moves and "defunding" from previous leaders, the new Council will pull from contingency funds to hire additional staff.

Earl Blumenauer Reflects on Long Political Career and “Bike-Partisanship”

After 28 years in Congress, Blumenauer will return to Portland as a civilian with big plans for the city and state's future. 

Affordable Housing Advocates Warn Slashing Supportive Housing Tax Could Be Catastrophic

As the regional government considers a handful of changes to the Supportive Housing Services tax on high-income earners, social service providers are sounding the alarm.

Dan Ryan Announces District 3 Council Candidate as Key Staff Pick 

A veteran City Hall executive who recently ran for a Council seat will lead Ryan's office. Mayor-elect Keith Wilson has also picked a top staffer.

Multnomah County Chair Defends Herself Against Former Employee's Lawsuit

A former employee alleges retaliation for blowing the whistle on potential records law violations among staff in Jessica Vega Pederson's office.

City Council Urged to Postpone Vote on Controversial Downtown Service District Contract

Citing ethical issues and potential conflicts of interest, advocates want the city to halt a no-bid contract renewal that would funnel millions to the Portland Metro Chamber.

Friday Election Results: Bynum Flips US House Seat Blue; Close Race in Portland City Council District 4

Portland will have the most racially diverse City Council the city has ever seen, with a progressive majority.

Keith Wilson is Portland’s Next Mayor

Portland’s City Council races are still being tallied, but preliminary results have held firm since Tuesday night.

UPDATE: City Commissioners Abandon Plans to Terminate Joint Homeless Response Agreement With Multnomah County

A Portland City Council discussion that could've ended a collaborative agreement, without a backup plan in place, has been scrapped a day after the election. The move would've cost the city more than $40M.

It's the Mercury's 2024 General Election Night Live Blog!

All the parties, all the results, and all the election night DRAMAZ!

Tonight: Don't Miss the Mercury's ELECTION NIGHT WATCH PARTY!

Rubio Campaign Didn’t Violate Election Rules, Auditor’s Office Says

Two complaints involving Carmen Rubio yielded no findings of wrongdoing, but the investigations highlight a rivalry between Rubio’s supporters and those backing Rene Gonzalez

Meet Your Portland 2024 Mayoral Candidates

Here's who wants to be Portland's next mayor.

Meet the Portland City Council Candidates: District 4

These candidates are running in the district composed of Portland's west side and some Southeast neighborhoods.

Auditor's Office: Gonzalez Violated Campaign Finance Rules and Tried to Obstruct Investigation

A re-determination by the Portland Auditor's Office finds city commissioner used taxpayer funds to benefit his campaign. Investigators say Gonzalez and his staffers lied about key documents and tried to interfere with the investigation.

Mercury Endorsements: District 4 Candidates

Our top three picks for the District 4 City Council race—ranked for your convenience.

Small Donors, Big Changes

With a Government Transition, More Candidates Tapped Into Public Campaign Funding Than Ever—Here’s How It Works.

Meet the Portland City Council Candidates: District 3

These candidates are running in the district that encompasses most of Southeast Portland east of the river to I-205.

Portland Elections Division Issues Warning Letter to Gonzalez Campaign Over Political Sign

A large sign supporting Rene Gonzalez for mayor left out a fine print financial disclosure. A separate investigation into his use of taxpayer funds was recently reopened.

Portland Auditor's Office Will Take Another Look At Gonzalez's Potential Campaign Finance Violation

Citing new information, auditors will revisit their prior determination of insufficient evidence of illegal activity related to Wikipedia edits

Controversial Dark Money Group, People For Portland, Dissolves Amid State Elections Investigation

The political organization known for its aggressive billboards says its election law violation had 'nothing to do' with decision. Another investigation is still active.

Auditors Determine Insufficient Evidence that Rene Gonzalez Violated Campaign Finance Laws

Despite "exceedingly close call" Portland Auditor's Office says commissioner and mayoral candidate's use of taxpayer money to alter his Wikipedia page isn't a definitive violation. Secretary of State will investigate other potential violations.

Meet the Portland City Council Candidates: District 1

These candidates are running in the district encompassing East Portland.

Portland Elections Office Investigating Rene Gonzalez For Using Taxpayer Funds on Wikipedia Edits

Records show Auditor's Office received three complaints over a $6,400 expenditure by the city commissioner's office to alter his Wikipedia page in the thick of campaign season.

Advocates say Portland is Overdue for a Tenant Bill of Rights

After the defeat of an eviction defense measure in 2023, organizers aren’t done pushing for renters’ protections

City Commissioner Receives Frosty Reception at County Democrats Event

Rene Gonzalez’s campaign for Portland mayor highlights rifts among local Democrats. Some say the party’s politics have diversified.

How Rene Gonzalez Found Common Ground With a Right-Wing Provocateur

Over the span of 24 hours, the Portland commissioner and mayoral candidate managed to anger his most conservative supporters, while inflaming progressives over a recent nod to Andy Ngo.

Here's Who's Running for Portland City Council in 2024

As the city gears up for a new government structure and a 12-person council, candidates are in the thick of campaign season for a pivotal November election.

Meet the Portland City Council Candidates: District 2

These candidates are running in the district located in North and Northeast Portland.

How a Super PAC Upended Portland’s 3rd Congressional District Race

Polling shows candidate Susheela Jayapal had an impressive lead in spring, before AIPAC spent big money to help Maxine Dexter defeat her.

What the Supreme Court’s Ruling Against Homelessness Means for Portland and Oregon

Portland must still abide by state law—policy which some experts say should be adopted by the entire nation.

Candidate for Mayor Carmen Rubio Snaps Up Endorsement From Gov. Tina Kotek

Rubio is among a crowded field of mayoral candidates, including two other current city commissioners.

Democrats Maxine Dexter and Janelle Bynum Pull Off Wins in Key Oregon Congressional Races

Both candidates will face Republican challengers in the November election. Dexter is expected to win the 3rd District this fall, while Bynum is hoping to flip the 5th District in the general election.

Update: DA Mike Schmidt Concedes in Primary Election Marked by Big Spending, Progressive Upsets

County commissioners race: Shannon Singleton, Vadim Mozyrsky, and Meghan Moyer advance to November runoff. Jessie Burke and Sam Adams nearly tied for second place in District 2.

May Primary Will Test Portlanders’ Tolerance For Outside Spending On Local Elections

Portland voters have tried to get big money out of local politics for years, but it has poured into Congressional races this spring.

As Maxine Dexter Touts Progressive Values, Conservative Donors are Flooding Her Campaign Coffers

With the election to determine who will take over Oregon's 3rd House District just days away, will Maxine Dexter's flood of opaque donations impact the race?

What Multnomah County Voters Could Learn From Others Who Ousted Progressive DAs

Voters’ fears over crime and safety often fuel election outcomes. Evidence shows prosecutors have little impact on crime rates.

Dark Money Casts a Shadow on Maxine Dexter’s Campaign

In one of Oregon’s most progressive congressional districts, anonymous super PAC money and tensions over Israel’s war in Gaza have taken the spotlight.

Police Arrest 30 During Portland State University Library Raid and Ongoing Protest

As cops swarm the urban campus to disband a days-long occupation, teachers denounce police response to campus protests across Oregon.

What Would You Do With $15 Million of City Money? Petition Would Give Portlanders a Say

If a participatory budgeting campaign gets off the ground, residents would be able to spend 2 percent—about $15 million—of the city’s budget each year on community projects.

Multnomah County Board of Commissioners Adopts Gaza Cease-Fire Resolution

County leaders unanimously approved a resolution after amendments, contentious back-and-forth between commissioners and the public

Multnomah County Commissioners Poised to Vote on Gaza Cease-Fire Resolution

The resolution, introduced by Commissioner Lori Stegmann, has been in the works for the last month. But pro-Palestine organizers are disappointed by what they see as a watered-down statement.

Charter Reform: City Approves Lucrative Salary, Severance Packages for Temporary Managers

Portland's new governing structure calls for a handful of deputy city administrators. Commissioners aren't sure they can recruit them.

Rene Gonzalez Holds Sizable Fundraising Lead in Portland Mayor’s Race

With the city's Small Donor Elections program facing a budget shortfall, campaigns may have to adjust their strategy ahead of a pivotal election.

Dan Ryan Will Run for City Council in District 2

While his colleagues run for mayor, Ryan is aiming to continue serving as a city council member.

Portland's Plan To Spur Housing Development by Relaxing Regulations Has Political Implications

The code change discussions underscored key differences amongst Portland City Council members— some of whom are competing for the mayoral seat this year.

Auditor: County Contracting Rules Bent to Favor Seattle-Based Nonprofit

A Multnomah County auditor's memo notes staff felt "pressured" by Susheela Jayapal, now running for Congress, to alter an application process to benefit Housing Connector, which later landed a lucrative contract.

Carmen Rubio Enters 2024 Portland Mayor's Race

The city commissioner is the third person on council to launch a campaign for mayor under Portland's new form of government.

Former City Commissioner Steve Novick Eyes Return to City Hall

Novick is running to represent District 3, after a former stint on Portland City Council.

Governor Kotek’s Central City Task Force Plan, Developed Behind Closed Doors, Gets Mixed Reviews

Task force plan recommends major public policy changes, but the public was barred from providing input or attending meetings.

Rene Gonzalez Announces Bid For Portland Mayor

Known for his conservative policies, Gonzalez is the second on council to announce a 2024 mayoral campaign.

Dan Ryan Rules Out Running for Portland Mayor

The city commissioner will decide whether to run for a council district by late January, as speculation swirls over who might challenge Mingus Mapps in 2024 race.

Jewish Activists Blockade Rep. Earl Blumenauer's Portland Office For Second Time in Two Weeks

Hours before an Israel/Hamas truce announcement, protesters pressured the Oregon congressman to follow Sen. Jeff Merkley’s call for a cease-fire in Gaza.

Protesters Picket Boeing Over Weapons Shipments to Israel

Activists blocked entrances at Boeing’s Gresham plant, saying the company needs to be held accountable for its role in the Hamas/Israel war that has killed thousands.

Portland Activists Stage Sit-In at Rep. Blumenauer’s Office In Hopes He'll Support a Cease-Fire in Gaza

Activists hope Blumenauer, a longtime progressive, will eventually be responsive to their demands.

City Council Approves Independent Monitor to Watch Over Cops

The monitor will determine if Portland Police remain compliant with the DOJ’s demands regarding the bureau’s excessive use of force.

City Council Won’t Let Go of Bureau Control as Charter Reform Transition Continues

In the race to implement government changes, commissioners break with the mayor over a timeline for bringing in deputy city administrators.

Portland’s Palestinian Diaspora Says Gaza is ‘More Than Its Suffering’

With Gaza under assault, local Palestinians reflect on the cycle of displacement that’s now preventing some residents from fleeing their war-torn homes

Portland City Commissioners Push Back on Mayor’s Plans For Government Transition

A fiery work session is just one example of clashes between city commissioners and mayor’s office over plans to prepare for a new, 12-person council

Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell Will Step Down, as Mayor Announces Interim Chief

Lovell, who was appointed chief in 2020, said he never intended to serve as chief through retirement. He will move into a community engagement role at Portland Police Bureau.

With Politics in Rearview, Mayor Wheeler Announces ‘Doubling Down’ on Homeless, Economic Policies

Portland mayor says he's committed to ending homeless camping, boosting economy, and hiring interim city manager before leaving office.

Portland Mayor Wheeler Says He Won't Seek Another Term

Addressing questions about a reelection bid, Wheeler says city's current challenges will require all of his focus over the next 15 months.

Portland City Councilors Will Lobby For Change in State Law to Pave Way For Criminalization of Drugs

City leaders blame a loophole in state law for the scourge of fentanyl and meth addiction on Portland's streets. Experts caution a repeat of the failed War on Drugs.

2024 Election: Portland City Council Candidates Already Scrambling For Public Campaign Dollars

With new City Council districts confirmed, campaigns are already underway for 12 council seats.

In His Mayoral Run, Mingus Mapps Wants to Lead "Portland 2.0"

After perceived policy missteps and previous opposition to new government structure coming in 2025, Mapps now wants to lead the "new Portland."

Portland’s Charter Reform is Moving Full Steam Ahead

Elected leaders would make at least $140K under new salary proposals, while draft voting district maps draw concern over geographic splits.

"PBOT Is on Life Support": Inside Portland’s Transportation Budget Crisis

An 11th-hour city budget amendment proposed by Mayor Ted Wheeler has revealed the depths of the transportation bureau’s woes.

The Trump-Adjusted Supreme Court Appears Ready to Uphold 2020 Citizenship Question

Nancy Pelosi Again Says No to Impeachment

What Buttigieg Gets Right About Bernie Supporters and Trump Supporters

Elizabeth Warren Joins Team ITMFA

"This Is the End of My Presidency. I'm Fucked," Trump Said on May 17, 2017

The Mueller Report Is Coming Thursday

Who Is This John Hickenlooper Guy?

McConnell Is Going Nuclear (Again) to Give Trump the Federal Judges He Wants

Another Reason to Want the Whole Mueller Report: It Describes Russia's 2016 Election Interference

Barr Knew About Mueller's Non-Exoneration of Trump Weeks Ago

Beto Brings Warmth, But He Does Not Spark Joy