5 things to watch in Oregon politics in 2026
Oregon Public Broadcasting - OPB••nation
Key Points:
- Oregon’s 2026 governor’s race features incumbent Democrat Tina Kotek seeking reelection amid criticism over housing costs, school rankings, and unemployment, potentially facing Republican Christine Drazan and other GOP contenders in a challenging midterm environment.
- A recently passed transportation funding bill signed by Kotek is now threatened by a Republican-led referendum effort, risking layoffs and service cuts in state transportation agencies, with lawmakers expected to address the issue during the 2026 legislative session.
- Portland’s city government underwent major structural changes in 2025, and after a year of adjustment, city leaders are exploring the new governance limits amid calls for oversight, efficiency improvements, and possible policy rollbacks, with key councilors facing reelection in November.
- Oregon faces
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