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.

OPB Politics Now

Behind the scenes of the deal to remove federal officers from Portland

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?

Portland City Politics With A Side Of Tear Gas

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.

Portland, A City Under Siege?

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.

No End In Sight For Portland Protests

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.

Wrapping Up The Oregon Legislature’s Short Session

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.

Special Legislative Session Preview

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.

Protests and Policy Shifts In Response To Racial Injustice

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.

OPB Politics Now: A Hot Race For Secretary Of State

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

Oregon’s Primary Election Recap

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

Countdown To The Primary Election

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.

OPB Politics Now: The Packed Race To Replace Greg Walden.

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.

OPB Politics Now: Ted Wheeler Vs. Recent History

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.

OPB Politics Now: Two To Be Multnomah County Prosecutor.

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.

OPB Politics Now: Who Will Replace Commissioner Nick Fish?

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.

Portland-area residents consider marginal income tax to fund homeless services

OPB Politics Now is a weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into the hottest political topics in Oregon and the Northwest. Every Friday, OPB’s political reporters and special guests offer in-depth analysis, discussion and insight into candidates, events and issues.