While Portland’s new voting method, ranked choice voting, has generally led to a more positive atmosphere among council candidates, the District 1 race is showing signs of intensifying pressure. In a recent campaign email, candidate Terrence Hayes commented on a forum where he felt his opponents’ focus on expanding urban tree canopies was met with skepticism by residents.
Hayes, running against frontrunners Steph Routh, Timur Ender, and Candace Avalos—candidates with strong backgrounds in sustainability, city planning, and environmental activism—described how the audience reacted when the topic of tree canopies was raised. “They were nearly laughed out of the room,” Hayes wrote. He suggested that this response indicated a disconnect between the candidates and the concerns of the community.
“The problem with these candidates is that they are treating our district like it’s the Inner Eastside and we’re in such a great place that we can focus on the top of the pyramid, and it’s incredibly detached from the needs of the community,” continued Hayes. “Of course, we need more trees in East Portland, but until we can feel safe walking down our streets, they are not currently very useful.”
Despite being outraised by his opponents, who have received endorsements from labor unions, progressive leaders, and environmental organizations, Hayes has recently gained momentum with endorsements from the Portland Police Union and City Commissioner Rene Gonzalez.
