Portland Councilor Smith accused of firing staff in retaliation for union drive
Oregon Public Broadcasting - OPB • • nation
Key Points:
- The newly formed Council Alliance of Workers union has filed an Unfair Labor Practice charge against Portland City Councilor Loretta Smith, alleging she fired Adam Murray, a lead union organizer, in retaliation for labor organizing efforts.
- Murray, who worked as a communications and policy aide for Smith since April 2025, was abruptly fired on January 9 after being placed on administrative leave related to attendance issues, according to the complaint.
- The union demands Murray's reinstatement and an end to retaliatory practices against union members, while the city and Smith have declined to comment on the personnel matter.
- Murray described a shift in his treatment by Smith and her Chief of Staff following the union announcement, including exclusion from discussions and scheduling conflicts,
