OPB Politics Now

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.