To commemorate President’s Day, this week’s guest is Tom Hughes, former President of the Metro Council (2011-2019). Tom discusses his forty-plus years of experience in public office, from the virtually powerless but high-visibility position of Mayor of Hillsboro, Oregon (2001-2009) to the almost-unknown but extremely important position of Metro President. He reflects on the races he ran and the experiences he had dealing with constituent reactions, and he draws some important lessons for people serving in office and those thinking about seeking office in the future.

This episode features “I Miss You, Darling” by Biscuits and Salty Gravy, recorded live at Mississippi Pizza in Portland, Oregon on June 19th, 2012.

For a longer interview with Tom discussing his time as Metro President, you can watch the City Club of Portland interview from December 2018.

Length: 27:33