Oregon lawmakers wrapped up the legislative session earlier this summer with a flurry of bills. Plenty of topics were discussed in the final days of session, but one wasn’t at all: How, and why a mega project to renovate the Capitol was nearly $100 million over budget. On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, reporters Lauren Dake and Dirk VanderHart discuss that project and Gov. Tina Kotek swooping in to try and solve Portland’s problems.

The costly Capitol renovation, plus Kotek’s task force to save Portland

"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&rsquo;s political reporters and special guests offer in-depth analysis, discussion and insight into candidates, events and issues.

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Should politics be a family affair? One Oregon community will put that issue to voters. I’m Lauren Dake. On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now we talk about a ballot proposal in Redmond plus how drug recriminalization may look in rural Oregon. We also address Gov. Kotek’s recent trip to Boardman to discuss nitrates. Find the show anywhere you get your podcasts.


Should politics be a family affair, plus harm reduction in Eastern Oregon

The OPB politics team is working hard on stories ahead of next month’s Oregon primary election. We’re going to have all sorts of coverage on this podcast, on OPB.org and on the radio in the coming days and weeks. That's a long way of saying - we're taking a break this week. But we’re not leaving you hanging. In case you missed it, here' a Think Out Loud debate featuring three of the candidates for Oregon’s Third Congressional Seat – that’s the one held by Earl Blumenauer for decades. This episode features Maxine Dexter, Susheela Jayapal and Eddy Morales.

3 top candidates for Oregon's 3rd Congressional District

Right 2 Dream Too used to dominate headlines in Portland, but the homeless community is largely overlooked these days. Also, one of the city’s newest outdoor shelters is nearing the one-year mark but finding housing remains a challenge. On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, reporters Lauren Dake, Alex Zielinski and Bryce Dole discuss Right 2 Dream Too and the Clinton Triangle. Find the show anywhere you5 get your podcasts

The tale of two homeless communities: Right 2 Dream Too and Clinton Triangle

Last year, Portland’s city council passed a new ban on unsanctioned homeless camping within the city during daytime hours. Almost a year later, it’s stalled and now Mayor Ted Wheeler has a new plan. On this week’s OPB Politics Now we walk you through the latest on Portland’s push and pull with addressing camps. Find the show wherever you get your podcasts. 
 

Portland tries again to ban certain activities tied to homeless camps

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek’s wife Aimee wants a larger role in state politics. What should Oregonians think of that? Does it matter? On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, we discuss why several top staffers left Kotek’s office and what other state’s do when it comes to first spouses. Find the show anywhere you get your podcasts.

The costly Capitol renovation, plus Kotek’s task force to save Portland

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