OPB Politics Now

Oregon House Republicans have been slowing legislative progress in that chamber down to a crawl. Early this week, House Republicans gave their first list of demands they wanted met, possibly kicking off negotiations. But by the afternoon, their list was an afterthought, pushed aside by a much more pressing matter: a COVID-19 exposure in the chamber.

Someone within the Portland Police Bureau is trying to smear Jo Ann Hardesty, and now city leaders say they’re investigating. In this episode, we look at the bitter relationship between a city commissioner and the city’s police force -- and the role the police union and a series of media leaks have played in making things even more tense.

Democrats kicked off a big housing push this week. We’ll talk about their plans for easing the state’s ongoing crisis, and how some controversial ideas to tamp down diesel emissions could generate backlash.

In this special episode, we hear from OPB reporter Rebecca Ellis about her report on longstanding issues at Portland’s Office of Community & Civic Life.

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown says students need to go back to school this spring. On this special episode of OPB Politics Now, education editor Rob Manning breaks down the news with Think Out Loud host Dave Miller.

On this week's episode of OPB Politics Now, reporters Lauren Dake, Dirk VanderHart and Jonathan Levinson go deep on a number of gun control bills begin considered this session.

This week we are going to discuss what seems like a pretty major shakeup within the Oregon Republican party. Small town mayor Bill Currier is out as chair of the state GOP. Conservative State Sen. Dallas Heard - and a number of his senate colleagues - are in. What does this leadership swap say about where the state’s GOP is heading?

Three days before Representative Diego Hernandez’s colleagues were set to vote on his possible expulsion, he resigned.

On this week’s episode, political reporters Dirk VanderHart and Lauren Dake look at an unusual effort to unionize state legislative employees – what it says about the legislature and about the role public employee unions play in Oregon.

State Rep. Diego Hernandez is under fire, after a panel of lawmakers determined he created a hostile work environment for women in the Capitol. And the Legislature’s plans to redraw the state’s political map are in big trouble. We’ll talk about how they might save the process.

This week we discuss a split between Oregon Republican lawmakers - those who serve as elected officials in the state Capitol - and their own party.

On this week’s show, we look at the start of contract negotiations between the city of Portland and its rank and file police officers. The union contract is among the most important — and most contentious — steps in Portland’s ongoing effort to change the way police oversight is handled.

On this week's episode of OPB Politics Now, we look at the role a Republican state legislators played in a recent riot at the Oregon Capitol, the possible consequences and concerns about safety during the upcoming long session.

In this special bonus episode of OPB Politics Now, Crystal Ligori talks to U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden about his hopes for Joe Biden, how he thinks Donald Trump will be remembered and how the 2020 reckoning over racial justice changed his view of his own job.

In this special extra episode of OPB Politics Now, OPB political reporter Rebecca Ellis sits down with outgoing Commissioner Amanda Fritz for an exit interview. Fritz is retiring this year after 12 years on the Portland City Council.

In this special episode, we’re sharing an extended conversation with Portland City Commissioner Chloe Eudaly, who is leaving office this week after one term in City Hall.

he Oregon legislature met in a special one-day session this week. On paper, it was a remarkably smooth day of lawmaking. But in person, it was scary and chaotic and said some worrisome things about what 2021 could bring. In this episode, we look at the COVID-19 relief coming for Oregonians. And the protests that could lead to security changes at the state Capitol.

The new year is coming, and with it a lot of potential pain for renters, landlords, business owners, and pretty much everyone. This week, we’ll look at the measures lawmakers are hoping to pass in an upcoming special session, and how they might help.

While the pandemic continues to batter Oregon, a moratorium on evictions expires at the end of this year if legislators don’t act. But Oregon Governor Kate Brown and state legislators haven’t yet settled on a plan.

Gov. Kate Brown just laid out her vision for Oregon’s next two year budget, but is it a rosier picture than the state can hope for in a pandemic? This week, we’ll look at the budget, plus an email spat in Portland City Hall and a tragic death in Salem.

We have another special episode for you. It’s a conversation with OPB’s Dave Miller and Khanh Pham

We’re taking a break this week, but we’re giving you a special episode from OPB’s Timber Wars.

In this episode, we discuss the possibility of a special session to deal with the ongoing pandemic and the battle for House speaker.

Oregon Democrats retained control of the both chambers of the state legislature on Election Day. But now they’re fighting over who should lead the state House. And this week, the man who runs elections for Oregon is out of job. But the precise reasons are cloudy.

The dust is still settling -- and the ballots are still being counted -- from Tuesday’s election. But we’ve learned a lot about how the specific results this week impact the broader picture of Oregon politics.

Democrats have taken back the state’s second highest office. Portland has a two-term mayor for the first time in a generation. And voters made a huge change in campaign finance laws. On the latest episode of OPB politics now, we break down Tuesday night’s results and what it means for the future of Oregon.

Four years ago, then-presidential candidate Donald Trump promised to kick start the timber industry, cut regulations for farmers and give more voice to rural parts of the Northwest. So … did he? On this episode, we look back on the Trump Administration and its impact on Oregon and Washington.

On this special election episode of OPB Politics Now, we look at the calculus of the Oregon legislature in this campaign cycle. Can Democrats add to their majorities -- and make the 2021 session walk out-proof? Or will Republicans make up some of the ground they've lost in recent years, and in turn stymie Gov. Kate Brown's efforts to leave a legacy?

The Portland metro area’s regionally elected government is asking voters to consider a measure that would fund roughly 150 transportation-focused programs and projects spanning the next 15 to 20 years. If passed, the measure would tax the payrolls of certain employers starting in 2022.

On this special election episode of OPB Politics Now, our campaign team looks at Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler's attempt to become the first two-term mayor in almost a generation. And they break down Commissioner Chloe Eudaly's fight to keep her seat.

On this special election preview episode of OPB Politics Now, our reporters break down the four statewide ballot measures on the November ballot. They include limits on campaign finance donations, higher taxes on cigarettes and two big changes in state drug policy.

On this special live episode of OPB Politics Now, our team of campaign reporters tell you everything you need to know to vote this year. From Olympia to Salem, from Congressional races to school bonds, we've got it covered.

On this special election preview episode of OPB Politics Now, we look at the two state senators running for Oregon's second-highest office, secretary of state. We also look at the campaigns for treasurer and attorney general.

In this special election preview episode, OPB reporters Rebecca Ellis and Jonathan Levinson explain Ballot Measure 26-217, which would change the process for overseeing the Portland Police Bureau.

As right wing demonstrators prepared to rally in Portland last month, dozens of police officers were deputized as federal officers. Now, the U.S. attorney has refused requests to reverse that distinction. This week, we look into the latest intergovernmental tussle over Portland protests, and one city official’s ideas for an overhaul of the police.

U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley faces Jo Rae Perkins in the race for Senate. On this special episode, OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes breaks down the two campaigns.

In this special election preview episode, OPB reporters Troy Brynelson, Jeff Mapes and Emily Cureton talk to host Tiffany Camhi about the region’s three hottest campaigns for U.S. House.

In this special election preview episode, OPB education reporter Elizabeth Miller and host Geoff Norcross break down two November ballot items: The Portland Public Schools $1.2 million bond measure and a Multnomah County tax levy that would provide free preschool for everyone.

We’re catching up on an assortment of Oregon politics this week. Governor Kate Brown announced she will veto budget bills -- but those vetoes might not be legal. And the Oregon Republican Party will appear in your voter pamphlet after all-- because nobody is quite sure what constitutes a deadline these days.

Three months after George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer, the U.S. is continuing to grapple with how to address police violence and systemic racism against Black Americans. For four Oregonians whose loved ones were killed by police, the past few months have been a time of processing grief, building community and coming up with strategies to end police violence. Joe Keller’s son Deontae Keller was killed by Portland police in 1996. Kayla Washington’s father Jason Washington was killed by Portland State University police in 2018. Donna Hayes’ grandson Quanice Hayes was killed by Portland police in 2017. Stephanie Babb’s brother Brian Babb was killed by Eugene police in 2015.

Oregon is dominated by Democrats, but Portland played an important role this week in the Republican National Convention. This week, we look at GOP efforts to make Portland a symbol in President Donald Trump’s reelection campaign. And we’ll examine whether there are any benefits for Republicans hoping to eat away at Democratic majorities in Oregon.

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler says he doesn’t see a clear path to ending the nightly violence between police and protesters that have capped daily demonstrations for racial equity for more than two months now. On this week’s OPB Politics Now, reporters Rebecca Ellis and Dirk VanderHart talk through Ellis’ recent interview with the mayor, in which he acknowledged that he hasn’t figured out how to balance the public’s right to protest with a need to stop a small subgroup of demonstrators from committing vandalism.

Oregon lawmakers finished a whirlwind legislative session on Monday. They worked 15 hours. They passed 11 bills. And they managed to close a $1.5 billion budget shortfall.

Portlanders have just a few more days to decide who they want to fill the City Council seat previously held by Commissioner Nick Fish, who died in January. This week, the candidates spoke to OPB Think Out Loud host Dave Miller about their stances on everything ranging from policing to the pandemic.

There’s a new sheriff in town when it comes to protecting the federal courthouse in downtown Portland. Gov. Kate Brown struck a deal with the Trump administration to remove federal officers whose presence has brought massive protests back downtown. In this episode, we go behind the scenes of that deal, and talk about what’s next.

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler waded into the crowd of protesters fighting for racial justice this week -- and he got tear gassed by federal officers. But did that wash away his political problems?

This week, federal officials described Portland as a city under siege. Local leaders say the only occupying force is federal law enforcement. In this episode, we’re examining the ongoing fight over downtown protests -- and Portland’s emerging role as a political symbol for President Trump.

For a month and a half, protests over police abuse have led to clashes on Portland streets. And with no end to the demonstrations in sight, the debate over how police react is fiercer than ever. This week, we take a look at the protests, and the growing war of words they’ve created.

Oregon lawmakers met for an unusual special session last week focused on COVID-19 and racial justice. But there’s a lot they didn’t get done. This week, we look at what has and hasn’t changed in police accountability and the big questions still to come on Oregon’s coronavirus response.

Oregon legislators are going back to work next week for the first time since the pandemic began and protests against police became two of the biggest issues of our time. This week, we discuss what the governor and legislators want to accomplish at this special session.

Protests against racial injustice and police brutality are leading to big policy shifts around the country. Oregon’s Capital is no different. On this week’s OPB Politics Now, we discuss the police accountability push that’s spurring quick action in Salem, and what challenges lie ahead.

After a wild few days, Sens. Shemia Fagan and Kim Thatcher have emerged as the Democatic and Republican candidates for secretary of state, Oregon’s second-highest office. On this week’s show, OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes, Dirk VanderHart and Lauren Dake break down their philosophical differences and the potential impact this campaign will on state audits, redistricting and future races for governor.

It’s a special post-election episode of OPB Politics Now, and we have election results to analyze -- or at least some of them.

regon’s primary election is just days away. This week, we discuss questionable claims on mailers, negative ads and strange trends in endorsements.

U.S. Rep. Greg Walden is retiring this year, giving up the only Congressional seat in Oregon held by a Republican. It’s a once-in-a-career opportunity for GOP politicians, and crowded ballot faces voters. OPB’s Emily Cureton and Jeff Mapes look at the leading candidates – and why Democrats are not all in – in this special election preview episode.

Ted Wheeler is trying to accomplish something no one in Portland has managed in almost a generation -- win a second term as mayor. He faces a crowded field of challengers -- most coming at Wheeler from the left -- and challenges from COVID-19. OPB’s Geoff Norcross, Rebecca Ellis and Dirk VanderHart break down this campaign in a special election preview.

Two candidates are vying to be Multnomah County district attorney. They bring similar backgrounds, but different approaches to the job. OPB's Conrad Wilson and Tiffany Camhi break down the race between Mike Schmidt and Ethan Knight in this special election preview episode.

The death of longtime Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish earlier this year created a void on the Portland City Council. But for the nearly 20 hopefuls who have tossed their hats into the ring to run for his seat -- it has presented an opportunity.
OPB reporters Lauren Dake and Rebecca Ellis join Geoff Norcross now to preview this race.

In this episode, we lay out a ballot measure that Portland-area voters are considering in the upcoming primary election that is expected to generate about $250 million a year to help expand homeless services in Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties.

Commissioner Chloe Eudaly stunned an incumbent four years ago to win her seat on the Portland City Council. Now she’s the one facing serious challengers, including former Portland Mayor Sam Adams. We preview the May 19 primary.

Secretary of state is the number two statewide office in Oregon. And it’s the only statewide office currently held by Republicans. We break down the crowded Democratic primary, and the far less-crowded GOP race.

It’s hard for unknown candidates to win elections in normal times. But how about when the only way to campaign is at a distance? This week, we talk about how coronavirus is changing politics as we head into Oregon’s May primary.

Oregonians are slowly growing used to social distancing, but there are some places where staying six feet from your neighbor isn’t possible. This week, we look at what Gov. Kate Brown and others are doing to stem an outbreak in the state’s prison system.

The Oregon legislature will not come back for a special session to deal with COVID-19 -- at least not yet. And despite coronavirus, the most controversial public works project in the state got a bright green light this week.

The coronavirus pandemic has upended life in the Pacific Northwest -- including campaign politics in Oregon. On this week’s OPB Politics Now, we’ll look at how your May and November ballots are changing.

The coronavirus pandemic has Oregon leaders scrambling to help people who have lost their jobs. And they’re facing pressure to do more to help -- and help curb the spread.

Our reporters are busy covering COVID-19. In the meantime, please wash your hands!

The Oregon Legislature ended its 2020 session this week in a complete failure after Republicans walked out.

Oregon Republican legislators from both the House and Senate walked off the job this week in protest of a major climate bill.

The Oregon legislature crept closer to a vote on a controversial plan to fight climate change this week. And it crept closer to a Republican walkout. This week, we look at where things stand with cap and trade legislation -- and whether GOP lawmakers already have their bags packed.

Logging trucks circled the Oregon Capitol this week. They were the centerpiece of a big timber community protest against a major climate bill. This week, we look at the politics of timber and climate change.

Oregon Legislature’s new session starts Monday. And the threat of another Republican walkout looms large. We talk about what to look out for in the new session.

An already chaotic season in Portland city politics ratcheted way up recently when Sam Adams entered the fray. The former Portland mayor brings a deep bench of allies into the race -- and he’s got one of the city’s most liberal commissioners in his sights. On this week’s episode of OPB Politics Now, we talk about the upcoming political fight between Sam Adams and Chloe Eudaly.

This week, we talk about the AP Legislative Preview and what we can expect to see from lawmakers in the 2020 Oregon legislative session that begins February 3.

For the past year, OPB and the Northwest News Network have been documenting the rising death toll inside county jails across Oregon and Washington. In this special episode, Conrad Wilson and Austin Jenkins compile the best of their reporting and tell new stories that reveal who is dying in jail, why they’re dying and who is being held responsible.

This week brought two stunning changes to Oregon’s largest city. Police Chief Danielle Outlaw left for Philadelphia. And we reflect on Commissioner Nick Fish’s life and legacy. We examine these two seismic changes and explain what they mean for Portland politics going forward.

In this episode, we discuss the growing political fight over the plan to widen Interstate 5 through Portland’s Rose Quarter.

The race to replace U.S. Rep. Greg Walden get even more interesting this week as former gubernatorial candidate Knute Buehler joined what is proving to be a crowded Republican field.

On this week's episode of "OPB Politics Now," political reporters Dirk VanderHart, Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake look at the dynamics of Walden's district, the potential field to replace him and whether Buehler has any damage to repair after his failed 2018 run for governor.

Historically, the tobacco industry has spent millions of dollars to protect itself from new regulations and tax increases. But now health care providers are pledging big money to a ballot measure that would raise the price of cigarettes in Oregon and impose the state’s first ever tax on vaping products. We look at what could be the most costly measure on your 2020 Oregon ballot.

Just five months ago, an unprecedented drama over climate change legislation shook the state Capitol. Now lawmakers are gearing up to meet again in three months — and the rush is on to avoid a similar outcome. And Oregon and Washington officials are once again in serious talks about a new Columbia River bridge on I-5. This time, they say they can get the job done.

The Portland region is headed for big fights over how it gets its water. And we’re also about to see much higher bills. This week, we dive deep into expensive problems facing Portland-area leaders — and the almost 1 million people who drink the city’s water.

Oregon’s only Republican in Congress announced he’s retiring next year. We break down Greg Walden’s announcement and talk about the battle in Washington over affirmative action.

In this special episode, we share a conversation from OPB's Think Out Loud that features four women of color who share their experiences in running for office in Oregon.

Governor Kate Brown’s job is safe for now. We can’t say the same for Ambassador Gordon Sondland. Ted Wheeler wants to be the mayor of Portland for four more years. And a bunch of people are applying to become Oregon’s next secretary of state.

Public employee unions have historically been one of the reasons Democrats enjoy a stranglehold on Oregon politics. But that might be changing. In this episode, we look at how a vote on state employee pensions is coming back to bite Democratic legislators.

National news was dominated by impeachment talk this week, but amid all the conversation about the Trump administration and Ukraine, there’s an Oregon angle. We’ll tell you how a Portland hotel owner found himself at the center of the fight.

The cannabis industry is booming in the Pacific Northwest -- and now state leaders and industry advocates want banks to get involved. Plus, there’s a move afoot to ask Oregon voters to decriminalize all drugs.

This week we discuss Governor Kate Brown’s proclaimed commitment to government transparency -- including in how she picks her judges. We also discuss a shakeup in House Republican leadership.

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown promised to improve transparency when she was elected. But this week the state’s first-ever public records advocate quit. This week we talk about the state of transparency in Oregon and whether Brown has been a help or hindrance to transparency in the state.

It’s Labor Day weekend, otherwise known as the ceremonial start of the upcoming campaign year. We give you a rundown of what to watch for as the state and local campaigns heat up.

Governor Kate Brown can't seek reelection again, yet her future was the big question in Oregon politics this week. On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, reporters Lauren Dake, Dirk VanderHart and Jeff Mapes explore her recent big fundraising push and the dueling campaigns to recall her from office.

This week, OPB politics reporters Lauren Dake and Dirk VanderHart and Jeff Mapes discuss some of the repercussions we’re already seeing from the 2019 legislative session.

the recent horrific mass shootings have once again prompted the gun control debate to take center stage. This week, we localize the national conversation around gun control and talk about what has - or hasn’t happened - in Oregon.

We’re taking a break at OPB Politics Now to recover from the 2019 Oregon legislature and prepare for the 2020 campaign cycle. While we’re off, here’s a special look at season 2 of Bundyville, a podcast from OPB and Longreads that chronicles the rise of the so-called patriot moving and how extreme rhetoric is going mainstream. In this episode, freelance journalist Leah Sottile looks at Washington Rep. Matt Shea and his push for a 51st state — a place governed by biblical law and made up of white people.

We’re taking some time off to recover from the legislative session, but in the meantime here’s a spirited conversation from our friends at Think Out Loud about the future of Oregon’s efforts to fight climate change. They talked to Senators Michael Dembrow, a Democrat, and Cliff Bentz, a Republican.

Once again, protests in downtown Portland have ended in brawls between the far left and far right. And once again, Portland leaders face criticism for their inability to prevent violence. This week, we look at what police can and can’t do -- and why ending the fighting is so politically difficult.

OPB’s Dave Miller spoke to Oregon Governor Kate Brown in this special episode of OPB Politics Now.

The Oregon legislature finished its work this weekend with a flurry of votes. And despite the nine-day Republican walkout, Democrats left Salem with a lot of what they wanted. On a special episode of OPB Politics Now, OPB reporters Jeff Mapes, Lauren Dake and Dirk VanderHart break down the 2019 session and look at how it will change life for Oregonians.

After skipping work for nine days, the 11 Senate Republicans are coming back to town. Victorious.

Senate President Peter Courtney is vowing to fine Republican senators who walked off the job. And he’s getting Governor Kate Brown’s help to send out the state police to round up the errant lawmakers. And one Republican senator warned that the state police better send bachelors because he won’t be taken into custody.

Oregon leaders are poised to take a crack at fighting climate change with legislators on the verge of passing a landmark cap-and-trade bill that aims to significantly curb the state’s carbons emissions. But can it work? And will it even pass? OPB reporters Jeff Mapes, Dirk Vanderhart and Cassandra Profita look at the potential impact of this sweeping legislation on our latest episode of OPB Politics Now.

The Oregon legislature is headed into its final weeks, and there is too much happening to fit into one podcast. So we’re doing things a little differently. It’s legislative pop quiz time.

This week at the Oregon legislature, lawmakers started work on campaign finance limits that don’t go quite as far as you might expect. And they mourned one of their own. We look at how much those campaign finance changes might change elections and examine Senator Jackie Winters’ life and legacy.

Portland’s city council just passed its yearly budget, and things got ugly. This week, we unpack the budget, and how it’s setting the stage for a very unpleasant 2020 campaign season in Oregon’s largest city.

Bills on vaccines and guns are out. Landmark school funding is in, and this year’s Legislative session shows no sign of slowing down. On this week’s OPB Politics Now, we hash out a hectic week in Salem, and why you might, or might not, have some money coming your way.

Republican members of the Oregon Senate walked off the job this week to prevent a vote on a $2-billion tax plan for public schools. In the latest edition of the OPB Politics Now podcast, political reporters Jeff Mapes, Dirk VanderHart and Lauren Dake explain what’s behind their walkout and what they hope to accomplish.

The Oregon House this week approved billions of dollars in new business taxes that would help fund education in the state. We explain how it would work in this week’s episode.

On this week’s “OPB Politics Now,” OPB News Editor Anna Griffin talks to OPB healthcare reporter Kristian Foden-Vencil and OPB political reporter Dirk VanderHart about the politics of vaccines and a bill in the legislature that would eliminate mon-medical exemptions to vaccines.

On this week’s episode of OPB Politics Now, we’re talking about the intersection of politics and criminal justice — including how Oregon should treat young offenders who are convicted of committing the most extreme crimes.

The 2019 Legislative session is already halfway through, and Oregon lawmakers still have an insane amount of work to do. On this week’s OPB Politics Now, we take the temperature of this very ambitious session. And we run down the Governor’s brand new plan for tackling Oregon’s pension problems.

Security in the state Capitol was extra tight this week as lawmakers considered whether to expand the state’s gun control laws. And we have a new Secretary of State. Now four of five statewide offices in Oregon are held by women for the first time in the state’s history. We’ll bring you all the details on this week’s episode of OPB Politics Now.

Oregon lawmakers were busy in Salem again this week. We’ll talk cap and trade and the Columbia River Crossing. Plus, we’ll discuss how lawmakers are trying to address the use of so-called dark money.

OPB has spent months digging deep on how Oregon handles its most vulnerable children. In this episode, we take a closer look at what’s plaguing the state’s child welfare system.

Portland is changing—and it’s fighting about how it changes every step of the way. We look at the debates over new housing and congested highways that are sweeping over the Rose City. And we’ll talk about why they might be coming to other parts of Oregon.

Washington Governor Jay Inslee is out on the presidential campaign trail. But Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley has decided it’s not in the cards for him. We explain what’s up with these two prominent Northwest Democrats in our latest edition of OPB Politics Now.

It’s been an intense week in the Capitol. Oregon became the first in the nation to pass statewide rent control. Senate President Peter Courtney has found himself under increasing pressure over how he handles sexual harassment. And Oregon’s Secretary of State Dennis Richardson died. I’m Lauren Dake. In this week’s episode of OPB Politics Now, we will catch up on what’s been happening in your statehouse.

The Oregon Republican Party is struggling with irrelevancy. There’s only one Republican in statewide office, and only one in the state congressional delegation. Can this party be saved? We look at the past and the potential future of the GOP in the age of Donald Trump and Democratic dominance on the West Coast.

The Oregon Republican Party is struggling with irrelevancy. There’s only one Republican in statewide office, and only one in the state congressional delegation. Can this party be saved? We look at the past and the potential future of the GOP in the age of Donald Trump and Democratic dominance on the West Coast.

The Portland City Council reconsidered its relationship with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force this week. But is this really the best form of government for making these kinds of decisions? An influential advocacy group says no.

For years, it’s been up to cities to solve their own housing problems. But Oregon’s housing crisis is now a statewide issue, and legislative leaders are rushing to respond. Two bills being considered in this year’s Legislative session would mean huge changes in how cities and towns handle the lack of affordable housing and rising rents.

The Oregon legislature is back at work, and they’re considering two big changes to help the environment. This week, we talk cap and trade and plastic straws, plus take a look at ways to make the Pacific Northwest more relevant in the 2020 presidential race.

Oregon Governor Kate Brown is pushing legislators to adopt new limits on big money in state campaigns. We explain what she’s up to, and the big hurdles standing in her way in this episode.

The Oregon Legislature takes up a jam-packed agenda when it gets underway next week. We’ll give you a quick rundown of the major issues.

It’s a new era at Portland City Hall as Commissioner Jo An Hardesty replaces Dan Saltzman, one of the longest-serving city officials ever. We’ll look at what this big change says about Portland politics. And we’ll examine the aftermath of the Oregon labor department’s scathing report on work conditions at the state legislature.

In June, Oregon Secretary of State Dennis Richardson announced he had brain cancer. In this week’s OPB Politics Now, we’ll discuss the delicate balance between a person’s right to privacy and the public’s right to know how an elected official is doing.

Legislators in Oregon and Washington promise to clean up their act next year when it comes to combating sexual harassment in their own ranks. In this episode, we look at what’s changing and whether it will really make a difference.

We take a look at the political ramification of three works in progress: The push to toll several roads in the Portland region, the pursuit of Major League Baseball for Oregon and the Bureau of Labor and Industries’ investigation of sexual harassment at the state Legislature.

The economy is buzzing. Unemployment rates are low. Yet, the state of Oregon is facing a budget shortfall. In this week’s OPB Politics Now, we dig into the governor’s $23.6 billion budget proposal and discuss how a tax hike could be in Oregonian’s future.

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler had perhaps the worst week of his tenure. First, his colleagues on the Portland City Council refused to give him more power over where and when political protests can be held. Then, after a forum on homelessness, he was heard muttering a suggestion that he may not want another term in office. Is the problem this particular mayor or Portland’s unique form of government? We dissect Wheeler’s very bad week and the city’s legacy of one-term mayors.

Next year, Oregon lawmakers plan to take up gun control and climate change. And coincidentally, Washington voters just considered the same issues. We’ll look at the Evergreen State’s recent fights over guns and carbon, and what they can tell us about Oregon’s future.

It’s Finally Election Day, And We Have Winners — And Losers. In this special late-night edition of OPB Politics Now, our team of reporters breaks down the results in the Oregon governor’s race, Portland City Council and state and local ballot measures and talk about what it means for the 2019 Legislature and beyond.

We’ve talked a lot about national politics this year, but local races matter too. Oregon voters are deciding whether Democrats will take back a supermajority -- and face an easier path to raising taxes -- in the state legislature. And in 10 counties, they’re considering whether to give sheriffs more power when it comes to the second amendment.

This year’s campaign for Oregon governor is the most expensive in state history. On this week’s episode of OPB Politics Now, we compare Governor Kate Brown and Republican challenger Knute Buehler on the issues— and look at what they both need to do to win.

Oregon voters face big decisions this election on abortion, immigration and tax policy. In this special episode, OPB reporters explain the history and ramifications of four measures on the Nov. 6 ballot. Measures 103 and 104 have to do with tax policy – should grocery taxes be banned and should it be harder for legislators to raise revenue. Measure 105 would overturn the state’s 30-year-old sanctuary state law, which limits how much local police can aid federal immigration enforcement. Measure 106 would bar public money from being used to pay for abortion, essentially barring women using Oregon’s version of Medicaid and many government workers from paying for abortions with their health insurance.

Ballots have hit the mail in Oregon. On this live episode of OPB Politics Now, the team breaks down the big issues on Oregon and Southwest Washington ballots, including all five statewide Oregon measures, the governor’s race, Congressional races in Washington and Southern Oregon and the Portland City Council race. No matter your politics, this wide-ranging conversation between OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and political reporters Lauren Dake and Dirk VanderHart will help you figure out your ballot. News director Anna Griffin hosts.

Democrats are trying to take back control of the US House. Two of the Republican incumbents they’re targeting are in the Pacific Northwest. We discuss hot Congressional races in Southwest Washington and Southern Oregon.

Hear from Democratic gubernatorial candidate Kate Brown in this special episode of OPB Politics now.

Hear from Republican gubernatorial candidate Knute Buehler in this special episode of OPB Politics now.

Hear from Independent gubernatorial candidate Patrick Starnes in this special episode of OPB Politics now.

We discuss the historic runoff election for the open Portland City Council seat.

Oregon voters have two tax measures to consider when ballots arrive later this month. One would ban taxes on groceries. Another would make it harder for legislators to raise revenue.

Oregon is a consistently liberal state. Yet conservative activists have succeeded in putting measures on the November ballot that would change state law on abortion and immigration. On this week’s OPB Politics Now, OPB news director Anna Griffin, senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and reporters Dirk VanderHart and Conrad Wilson break down Measures 105 and 106.

Portland City Council candidate JoAnn Hardesty is facing some big questions about her financial past. We’ll discuss that, along with the ins and outs of a regional housing measure and a proposed Portland clean energy tax.

The west coast has been ravaged by wildfires. And it turns out the way we have been fighting fires for the last century has been wrong.

Recent history has shown that star power can help you get elected to public office. But can it work when the office you want is county commissioner? And, do sports fans care which party Paul Allen and Phil Knight support with the money they spend on tickets, t-shirts and shoes?

Southwest Washington’s teachers are on strike, and almost half of Oregon’s sheriff’s despise one of the country’s oldest sanctuary laws.

A US House candidate’s entire campaign staff resigns. A state House candidate ignores calls from his own party to step aside. And the president of the United States berates the mayor of Portland.

On this week’s episode of OPB Politics Now, deep-dive conversations with the Republican and Democratic candidates for Oregon governor about their lives beyond politics.

On this week’s episode of OPB Politics Now, deep-dive conversations with the Republican and Democratic candidates for Oregon governor about their lives beyond politics.

The big political news this week was north of the Columbia River as Washington voters held their primary. It suddenly became very clear that we could have three very close congressional races in the Evergreen State.

In the last year, allegations of sexual harassment have rocked the Oregon Legislature. Now there’s new controversy. Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian has accused legislative leaders of permitting a culture that downplays harassment, and overlooks victims. We explain the complaint—and its political implications.

It’s a new world for the powerful public employee unions in Oregon now that the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled states can’t require public employees to pay dues to unions that represent them in the workplace. The fight over the future of Oregon unions has already begun.

No issue has plagued Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler like homelessness. Now, a new analysis of police arrests has both activists and the city’s police union lobbing fresh criticism at the mayor. I’m Dirk VanderHart. In this week’s Politics Now Podcast, we’ll explain the outcry, and try to figure out what it means for Wheeler’s political future.

In Central Oregon, accusations of harassment against one candidate could sink Democratic hopes of a supermajority in the Oregon House. And in the suburbs of Portland, the lone African American woman in the state house goes canvassing for votes -- and gets a visit from police.

Between Supreme Court decisions in Washington D-C and ballot measures in Salem, this was a tough week for progressives and a good one for conservatives in the Pacific Northwest.

Oregon’s attorney general is joining yet another lawsuit against the Trump Administration, this time over the family separation policy.
We’ll look what happens politically when a Democratic-led state government becomes parts of the resistance and the potential disaster the immigration controversy presents for Oregon Republicans.

Of all the ballot fights Oregonians could expect later this year, abortion may be the most surprising. Hyper blue Oregon has repeatedly shot down new restrictions on abortion over the years. But now, a conservative group is hoping to call the question again. On this week’s episode, we’ll look at what that fight’s all about—and what it might mean for one candidate for governor.

When it comes to presidential politics, Oregon and Washington aren’t exactly battleground states. This week, we’ll discuss some Pacific Northwesterners who seem to be positioning themselves for a run at the White House.

It was a big week for tax news in Oregon. This week, we bring you inside the special session on a business tax break. And we talk about why Oregon income taxpayers might be getting another one of those “kicker” tax rebates.

Pundits are calling this the year of the woman in politics. But in Oregon, this demographic shift has been years in the making. On this week’s episode of OPB politics now, we examine the changing demographics of state politics and whether more diversity makes a difference in policy.

On this special edition of OPB Politics Now, news director Anna Griffin and senior political reporter Jeff Mapes walk through the May primary results and the general election to come.

Oregon’s primary election is days away, and candidates are making their final frantic pleas to voters. And in some races, that’s taking a negative turn. In this week’s Politics Now podcast, we look at some of the state’s most-heated contests. We’ll also preview a controversial special legislative session being called by Governor Kate Brown.

The primary election is a week and a half away, and some of Oregon’s most fascinating races are happening on the local level. Will Portland elect its first woman of color to city council? Who’s poised to round out Multnomah County’s commission? And what’s all this national money doing in a race for district attorney? This week’s podcast explores these topics and more.

Ballots for the May 15th primary are arriving, and and we’ve got you covered on the latest OPB Politics Now podcast. OPB political reporters talk about some of the key legislative races and the statewide contest for Oregon labor commissioner. Subscribe to OPB Politics Now in Apple Podcasts, the NPR One app, or at OPB-dot-ORG

State Representative Knute Buehler has been crowned the likely GOP front-runner for governor and he has virtually ignored the Republican primary. His opponents say he’s not conservative enough for Oregon. On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, we’ll take a look at the Republican primary and what a November matchup between Buehler and Governor Kate Brown could look like.

Sometimes the structure of government voters choose is just as important as who they elect. We’ll look at why Bend may get a stronger mayor, Eugene voters have two different auditor measures to consider and Portland’s form of government remains … strange.

Multnomah County leaders thought they finally had to deal to sell off the Wapato Jail. But when it comes to this particular large government white elephant, things are never easy. OPB News Director Anna Griffin and OPB reporters Dir Vanderhart and Amelia Templeton unravel the roiling ball of snakes that is Wapato.

Students and an interfaith group are launching a last-minute attempt to get a measure on the Oregon ballot to ban military-style guns. OPB reporters Jeff Mapes and Dirk VanderHart and Claire Withycombe, state capitol reporter for The East Oregonian and Pamplin Media, dissect the initiative and tell us what other measures are being circulated for signatures right now.

On this week’s OPB Politics Now, we’ll wrap up the 2018 legislative session and examine the state of the Oregon Republican Party going into primary season.

Oregon lawmakers are rushing toward adjourning the 2018 session, so we’re taking a last-minute look at the prospects for several of the major bills still in the pipeline. Jeff Mapes, OPB’s senior political reporter, talks with OPB politics reporter Lauren Dake and Paris Achen, capital correspondent for the Portland Tribune.

The mass shooting in Florida has reignited the debate over gun control. Washington and Oregon are solidly blue states. But guns are one issue where Democratic lawmakers have struggled to build consensus. On this week’s OPB Politics Now podcast, OPB News Director Anna Griffin talks to OPB political reporter Lauren Dake and Olympia reporter Austin Jenkins about the politics of guns in the northwest.

The Oregon House this week passed a resolution that would ask voters to create a constitutional right providing “access to effective, medically appropriate and affordable health care.” As the resolution heads to the Senate, OPB Politics Now looks at both the policy and the politics of the “health care for all” measure. Kristian Foden-Vencil, who covers health care for OPB, and Jeff Mapes, OPB’s senior political reporter, grapple with an issue that could be headed for the November ballot.

This week on "OPB Politics Now," we’ll discuss the policies both Oregon and Washington are considering to tackle climate change at the state level. OPB political reporter Lauren Dake talks with Cassandra Profita, an EarthFix reporter for OPB; Austin Jenkins, Olympia correspondent for the Northwest News Network; and Jeff Mapes, OPB’s senior political reporter.

Oregon legislators will be starting their short session that they hold in even years. We talk about what’s on the agenda in the latest episode of OPB Politics Now.

Oregon voters have overwhelmingly approved a package of health care taxes to ensure low-income Oregonians will keep their health coverage.

We discuss the aftermath of the $320 million referendum that will tax hospitals and certain health insurers. Who wins, who loses and what’s the future of health care -- and health care politics -- in Oregon?

Since Donald Trump’s presidential victory, Oregon’s lone Republican congressman, Greg Walden, has enjoyed a higher profile and more power. But with more influence comes extra scrutiny. OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake, along with Central Oregon reporter Amanda Peacher discuss Walden’s tenure representing the state’s 2nd Congressional District with Trump in the Oval Office.

Oregon voters will decide on Jan. 23 whether or not to approve up to $320 million in hospital and insurance taxes to help pay for the state’s share of Medicaid. The system funded by both federal and state dollars covers more than a million Oregonians.

We explain how the taxes help pay for Medicaid and what supporters and opponents are saying. And we explore what the Legislature will do when it meets in February if voters reject Measure 101. Host Anna Griffin is joined by OPB political reporters Lauren Dake and Jeff Mapes and by Courtney Sherwood, editor-in-chief of The Lund Report.

There are many questions facing Oregonians in 2018. Who will be Oregon’s next governor? Should any Congressional representatives worry about midterm elections? Will Oregon highways get tolls? We look into the big political stories of 2018 with OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake, and news director Anna Griffin. Geoff Norcross hosts.

Please fill out our survey and tell us what you want to hear in 2018: http://opb.org/politicsnow

Vera Katz was small in stature, but she had a big influence on Oregon politics. She was elected to three terms as Portland’s mayor and was the first woman to serve as speaker of the Oregon House. She died earlier this month at the age of 84 after a long battle with cancer.

We talked a bit about Katz and her political legacy on a recent episode, but this is a woman who did so much that it’s hard to capture in one conversation. So today, we’re bringing you a more in-depth look at Vera Katz.

The deadly crash of Amtrak train 501 near Tacoma Monday is drawing new scrutiny of passenger rail funding and oversight. Communities have been voicing concerns about the rerouting of the Cascades line for years, and Congressional efforts to make train travel safer haven’t materialized yet. Geoff Norcross is joined by OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake, and Seattle Times transportation reporter Mike Lindblom. We’ll also discuss the $1.5 trillion tax bill, and how it will be felt in Oregon.

Vera Katz passed away this week at age 84. She served three terms as Portland mayor, which has become a rare accomplishment.
Every mayor since has only served one term. She was also the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House in the Oregon Legislature.
We look back on Katz’s legacy in both roles.
We also dive into Columbia Sportswear’s role in the Portland homelessness debate.
Host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB news director Anna Griffin and senior political reporter Jeff Mapes, and Dirk VanderHart of the Portland Mercury.

President Trump ordered the shrinking of two national monuments in Utah this week. Attention immediately shifted to the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, which Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke says should also be smaller. We talk through the politics of these moves, and get into Oregon Gov. Kate Brown's actions on the thorny issues of the state budget and PERS. Short answer: task forces!

Oregon Secretary of State Dennis Richardson has just released an audit that shows the Oregon Health Authority misspent millions in taxpayer dollars. OHA oversees medical coverage for more than a quarter of all Oregonians and, according to the audit, the agency has failed to enact rigorous financial controls and properly determine who is eligible for coverage. But the audit also says Oregon isn’t alone in struggling to run the complex program – and supporters say it has done an heroic job of bringing coverage to hundreds of thousands of low-income Oregonians.
OPB political reporters Lauren Dake and Jeff Mapes join OPB news editor Anna Griffin to discuss the ups and downs of one of the biggest agencies in state government – and the impact the audit will have on the governor’s race and the health-care tax vote that will go before Oregonians in January.

We’re bringing you a conversation with an Oregon political figure that you might have missed when it originally aired. Secretary of State Dennis Richardson opened up to OPB host Kate Davidson as part of her “backstory” series, where she explores the pivotal experiences that shape the views of people in the public eye.

Oregon State Senator Jeff Kruse faces explosive new allegations of sexual misconduct. Former Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber has agreed to pay a $1,000 fine for ethics violations surrounding his resignation from office nearly three years ago. And Portland City Commissioner Chloe Eudaly is engaged in an unusual Facebook feud with the local news media.
OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake, OPB news editor Anna Griffin, and Laura Gunderson, editorial page editor for the Oregonian/OregonLive discuss these three very different stories of Oregon politicians in the news this week

In Oregon, voters said "yes" to money for Portland Community College and "no" to a major structural change in Douglas County government. Washington voters elected a candidate to the Port of Vancouver board that likely spells the end of the proposed oil terminal there. And a key legislative race in Washington solidified the "blue wall" of Democratic control up and down the west coast.

Host Julie Sabatier is joined OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake, and Jefferson Public Radio reporter April Ehrlich to wrap up the 2017 special election.

The November 7 special election will decide the balance of power in the Washington Legislature. It will also determine if Portland Community College gets $185 million for expansion. We talk about the important issues before voters on both sides of the Columbia. Host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake, and OPB’s SW Washington reporter Molly Solomon.

The current nationwide discussion about sexual harassment that started with allegations against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein has spread far and wide, including to the Oregon Capital. State Senator Sara Gelser accused fellow senator Jeff Kruse of touching her inappropriately. A second unnamed senator made a similar accusation, and Sen. Kruse was stripped of his committee assignments. We'll talk about the allegations, and more broadly about the culture of harassment in Salem. Host Julie Sabatier is joined by OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Lauren Dake, and Gordon Friedman, politics reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive.

This November, Douglas County voters will be asked to approve a Home Rule charter. It would dramatically change how the county is governed. The county commission would expand from three to five members, and a county manager position would be created for the day-to-day running of the county. Host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB reporters Jeff Mapes and Chris Lehman, and Jefferson Public Radio’s April Ehrlich about the nitty-gritty of the charter, and what lessons it might have for local governments around the state.

A proposed I-5 expansion through the Rose Quarter has become about MUCH more than a few more highway lanes. It touches on racism, privilege, Portland’s relationship with the state and how leaders envision the city.
We talk about where the battle lines are being drawn and dig into the history of Portland's difficult relationship with freeway projects. Host Julie Sabatier talks to OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and Portland Mercury news editor Dirk VanderHart.

Oregonians might have the opportunity to vote on a controversial new tax that’s designed to prop up the state’s Medicaid program. But they won’t get to weigh in on a new law that allows the confiscation of guns belonging to certain people deemed an extreme risk to themselves or others. This time, we dig into the ballot referendum process in Oregon and how it could affect two of the most divisive issues of our time. OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes, and Oregonian/OregonLive editorial pages editor Laura Gunderson join host Geoff Norcross.

Analysts predicted Oregon would lose more than any other state if the latest attempt to roll back the Affordable Care Act was enacted. It won’t be, though. The bill known was Graham-Cassidy was shelved after failing to earn enough support from Senate Republicans. We look at what Oregon stands to lose if this isn’t the last hurrah for the repeal effort. We’ll also get a status update on the effort to repeal a new state tax on health care providers. Host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes, and Courtney Sherwood, editor-in-chief of The Lund Report.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions visited Portland this week, and railed against Oregon’s law that prohibits state law enforcement officers from cooperating with federal immigration agents. He said these policies, “…have serious consequences for the law-abiding residents of Oregon.” At the same time, groups are gathering signatures for a ballot measure to repeal that state law. Host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes, and Dirk Vanderhart, editor for the Portland Mercury.

Commissioner Dan Saltzman sent ripples through Portland city government when he announced he would not run next year. His replacement could be a woman of color, which would be a first for the council. Host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB reporters Jeff Mapes and Amelia Templeton about the how the race is shaping up. We’ll also analyze Mayor Ted Wheeler’s response to a video that appears to show a police officer lobbing a distraction grenade at demonstrators last weekend.

Wildfires have scorched over 800 square miles in Oregon this year. Our lawmakers are trying to get more federal money to help the firefighting effort. Hurricanes have focused the federal government on disaster relief and that could mean big changes in the way fire funding works.
OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Chris Lehman join host Julie Sabatier to talk about the political, financial, and environmental complexities of wildfire.

Oregon Governor Kate Brown is under pressure to reduce the state’s liability for the public pension system. This week, the governor's task force on the pension deficit put forth several ideas for how to do that. Many of those ideas would end up costing all Oregonians. Not surprisingly, Republican lawmakers pounced.
Host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Chris Lehman about some of the options on the table. We’ll also answer some basic questions about PERS, like how it got to be such a money pit in the first place.

Oregon’s unique “kicker” law means taxpayers will get $464 million in rebates next year. The news comes shortly after a legislative session that worked to close a $1.4 million spending gap. Yep, it’s a weird way to manage the state’s money.
OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Chris Lehman join host Julie Sabatier to answer your questions about the kicker, such as where it came from and why it’s so hard to change.

Nike co-founder Phil Knight gave GOP candidate for Oregon governor Knute Buehler’s campaign $500,000 this week. Even with that huge cash infusion, Buehler has way less money on hand than incumbent Kate Brown, who hasn’t even declared she’s running yet.
Host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes about the big money that’s already flowing into the gubernatorial race. We’ll also hear what Governor Brown vetoed and what she signed this week.

You may think of August as a slow month for political news, but some of Oregon’s 2018 races are already heating up. OPB’s senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and news director Anna Griffin join host Julie Sabatier to talk about political gamesmanship in the race for governor, a state senator who is facing two interesting challengers and a former lawmaker who’s taking on a longtime Portland City Commissioner.

There’s a lot going on in the Portland Police Bureau these days. There’s the search for a permanent chief. The mayor has also proposed a new model for community oversight, which is attracting criticism.

This time, we’re listening to a couple of recent conversation’s on OPB’s "Think Out Loud." Host Dave Miller spoke with Mayor Ted Wheeler and T. Allen Bethel, president of the Albina Ministerial Alliance.

This week, the Washington Post posted an interview with Oregon Gov. Kate Brown, who is an anomaly these days: a woman governor leading a state with a Democratic majority in the statehouse. Only Rhode Island can make the same claim.
Host Geoff Norcross and OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes talk with Washington Post reporter Amber Phillips about her piece on Gov. Brown, and why East Coast journalists view Oregon as the center of resistance to President Trump and his policies. We also talk with Oregonian/OregonLive political reporter Hillary Borrud about accusations of sexism in state politics.

We’re taking advantage of a slow week in Oregon politics to bring you a recent conversation with Oregon Governor Kate Brown on OPB’s "Think Out Loud."

Host Dave Miller sat down with Brown after the legislative session ended in Salem to take stock of her agenda and look ahead to 2018.

We’re back next week with a brand new episode.

Now that Oregon lawmakers are finished with passing bills for a while, they have time to consider their next moves. We dig into the election maneuvering now taking wing. We’ll talk about which politicos might file for which offices and look ahead to the next statewide ballot, which could be stuffed with measures for you to vote on.

This week, host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes, and Saul Hubbard, who covers politics for the Register-Guard.

The 2017 Oregon legislative session is finally over! On this special episode, we talk about what passed, what didn’t, and where all of that leaves Oregon politics. OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and Oregonian/Oregonlive reporter Hillary Borrud join host Julie Sabatier.

***As of our taping Friday morning, the Oregon Legislature is still in session. Look for a special episode Monday, July 10 recapping the highlights once the session wraps up.***

While Congress continues to negotiate rolling back the Affordable Care Act, Oregon lawmakers are going the other way. Both chambers approved controversial bills. One would extend health insurance to children who are in the country illegally. Another would require insurance companies to cover reproductive care, including abortions.
We talk about why Oregon lawmakers are so willing to counter the federal government on such hot-button issues. Host Geoff Norcross is joined by OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and news director Anna Griffin.

Oregon lawmakers are making their way to the end of the session in fits and starts. They have to wrap up by July 10, and billions of dollars in transportation funding still hangs in the balance. What will it take to dedicate money to Oregon’s roads and bridges? Why is it so hard for lawmakers to agree on something that both sides say should be a top priority? OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and Register-Guard reporter Saul Hubbard attempt to answer these and other questions, including some listener mail! Julie Sabatier hosts.

Oregon Governor Kate Brown announced she and her fellow Democrats are abandoning efforts to increase corporate tax revenue. As a deadline looms to close a $1.4 billion budget gap, Brown and lawmakers are instead focusing their efforts on a healthcare provider tax and spending cuts.

Host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Chris Lehman about the failed effort to reform corporate taxes. They’ll also have an update on the $8 billion transportation package, and Oregon Ethics Commission review of former Gov. John Kitzhaber and his fiancée, former First Lady Cylvia Hayes.

Former Governor John Kitzhaber was a giant of Oregon politics until he resigned amidst an influence-peddling scandal in 2015. Two years later, the federal investigation into Kitzhaber and his fiancée Cylvia Hayes has concluded with no criminal charges. Host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and Willamette Week reporter Nigel Jaquiss, who broke the original story about allegations Kitzhaber and Hayes used government resources to generate more than $200,000 in contracts for Hayes’s private consulting business.

Wyden and Merkley made national news this week, albeit for different reasons. During a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Ron Wyden got into an exchange with Attorney General Jeff Sessions that was called “testy” and “heated.” As for Jeff Merkley, CNN wrote a story suggesting Oregon’s junior senator could be a strong contender in the presidential primary in 2020.
This week, OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and host Geoff Norcross talk about how the senators are performing in the national spotlight. We also hear from OPB reporter Conrad Wilson about a Supreme Court hearing for Marion County Judge Vance Day, who could be removed from the bench.

On the latest episode of "OPB Politics Now," we discuss Oregon lawmaker's proposals for closing the state's $1.4 billion budget shortfall. Democratic leaders announced a corporate tax plan that would raise nearly $900 million over the next two years. They also have a proposal to shift some of the burden of Oregon’s pension plan to its recipients. Geoff Norcross talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and Hillary Borrud, political reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive. And we get the highlights from political scientist Paul Gronke's survey findings about the affect of the state’s Motor Voter law on the the turnout and diversity of the Oregon electorate.

On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, we talk about the political aftermath of the recent attack on a MAX train that left two men dead and one seriously injured. Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler’s response brought up some serious questions about free speech vs hate speech. And two competing political rallies are planned for this weekend.

This week, the Portland Water Bureau and the Washington Legislature were told to stop lollygagging on critical issues. The Oregon Health Authority ordered the City of Portland to treat its water for cryptosporidium, which it has refused to do for over a decade. And Washington Governor Jay Inslee called lawmakers back to Olympia for another special session to fix its infamous school funding problem.
Host Geoff Norcross and OPB news director Anna Griffin will talk with Olympia correspondent Austin Jenkins and Portland Mercury reporter Dirk Vanderhart.

Depending on their party, lawmakers saw very different things in the quarterly economic and revenue forecast that came out this week. Either we have a broken tax system or more tax revenue than the state has ever seen. Can it be both?

Meanwhile, voters just passed the largest school bond measure in Oregon history. It means $790 million to upgrades for four Portland schools and getting lead out of the drinking water. Voters in the Bend-La Pine district also passed a measure to finance 159 projects in the district. But smaller districts weren't so lucky.

This week, host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB news director Anna Griffin, education reporter Rob Manning, and Gordon Friedman, political reporter for The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Oregon lawmakers unveiled an $8.2 billion transportation package, which will widen highways and shore up bridges. The money will come from a combination of gas and sales taxes, and maybe even tolls. We’ll dig into the details of the proposal. We’ll also hear why the state Land Board changed its mind and voted not to sell the Elliott State Forest. Plus we find out what flavor is in the running to become the official state pie. Host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes, Oregonian reporter Anna Marum, and EarthFix reporter Cassandra Profita.

This week, the U.S. House took up a replacement bill for the Affordable Care Act, a protest in Portland got violent, and the Oregon Legislature released a corporate tax proposal. Sound familiar?
Host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB news director Anna Griffin and senior political reporter Jeff Mapes about these recurring themes in the news, and what's different this time.

Voters across Oregon will decide whether to devote millions to new school construction this May. At the same time, the Legislature is trying to come up with school funding for the next two years. We talk to OPB education reporter Rob Manning about a proposed $790 million construction bond in the Portland Public School district. Senior political reporter Jeff Mapes also updates us on the budget negotiations in Salem. Geoff Norcross hosts.

Now that we’re about halfway through this legislative session, OPB political reporters Jeff Mapes and Chris Lehman join host Julie Sabatier to talk about which bills are dead and which ones are moving forward. And how budget negotiations heated up this week.

Oregon’s only Republican member of Congress is holding six town hall meetings in his district this month, and boy do his constituents have a lot to say! This time, host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and Bend reporter Amanda Peacher about the raucous reception Rep. Greg Walden has gotten so far, and what it might mean for his reelection bid next year.

With Tax Day approaching, we dig into tax reform efforts at the national, state and local levels. OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes brings us input from former Oregon Sen. Bob Packwood on the joys and pitfalls of overhauling the federal tax code. We’ll also talk with Oregonian reporter Anna Marum about the big fight brewing over a proposed state tax on corporations. And Multnomah County government wants to protect us all from the dangers of sugary drinks the only way it knows how... with taxes of course! Julie Sabatier hosts.

We bring you a wide-ranging interview with Oregon Senate President Peter Courtney from OPB's Think Out Loud. As you'll discover right away, he's not only a fixture in Oregon politics — he's a real character.

Oregon’s leaders are picking fights with the Trump administration on a number of issues. The administration is pushing back, threatening to withhold grants from states that don’t get in line. Host Geoff Norcross talks with OPB’s senior political reporter Jeff Mapes and EarthFix reporter Jes Burns about Oregon's differences with the federal government on immigration, environmental regulations, and marijuana legalization.

Portland commissioners are trying to enact a progressive agenda, but activists in council chambers are yelling at them to focus more on police reform and homelessness. With supporters of liberal causes pitted against one another, who wins? And we’ll touch on the Northwest’s role in the stalled effort to repeal Obamacare. Host Julie Sabatier talks with OPB news director Anna Griffin and senior political reporter Jeff Mapes.

Description: Oregon GOP Congressman Greg Walden is at the center of Republican efforts to replace the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare). The bill his committee came up with is not universally loved by Republicans, and it might not even make it to the president’s desk. This time, host Geoff Norcross talks with Bloomberg News health reporter Anna Edney and OPB senior political reporter Jeff Mapes about the political consequences of this effort.