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While there may be only a few measures and candidates on this May’s election ballot, we should all know by now that voting matters in every election—and this ballot contains some especially important decisions for you to make. Lucky for you, the Mercury did all the heavy lifting, so check out our endorsements and get to voting!
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Multnomah County Measure 26-238: A Reluctant Yes
Perhaps no other ballot measure has led to the amount of discussion, questions, and consternation among the Mercury’s editorial team than the “Eviction Representation for All” measure, and for that, we are pissed. For the first time in a long time, our team was split on a decision.
Here’s the deal: There’s no doubt the current eviction system is deeply flawed and unfairly favors landlords. The data clearly shows that tenants are often left to go without legal representation in matters that have serious, lasting consequences on their lives.
Measure 26-238 seeks to create a new Tenant Resource Office to provide legal services for those facing eviction. It would add to existing eviction defense resources available through the city and county, offering culturally relevant services to anyone in need, regardless of income.