SEIU Local 49 and 503, two local branches of Oregon’s largest public employee union, have announced their endorsements for the upcoming November city council races. The endorsed candidates span a spectrum of political views, from moderate Democrats like Mariah Hudson and Tiffani Penson in District 2 to progressive candidates such as Tiffany Koyama Lane and Angelita Morillo in District 3. Their platforms also differ significantly: Olivia Clark and Tony Morse in District 4 have received endorsements from the Portland Police Association, while candidates like Candace Avalos and Jamie Dunphy in District 1 have signed the “No Police Money” pledge, rejecting endorsements and contributions from law enforcement.
All of the chosen candidates have strong union backing, with District 2 candidate Jonathan Tasini, a lifelong union organizer, showing the highest levels of labor support. He is closely trailed by recovery advocate Tony Morse in District 4. SEIU’s organizational resources, including door-knocking, phone banking, and social media campaigns, are expected to play a key role in crowded council races.
- Mayor: Carmen Rubio
- District 1: Candace Avalos, Jamie Dunphy, Steph Routh
- District 2: Mariah Hudson, Tiffani Penson, Elana Pirtle-Guiney, Jonathan Tasini, Nat West
- District 3: Tiffany Koyama Lane, Angelita Morillo, Steve Novick
- District 4: Olivia Clark, Chad Lykins, Tony Morse
