Overview
A new political action committee (PAC), Unity PAC, has formed to support moderate candidates in the upcoming elections for the Portland City Council and Multnomah County chair. The committee includes various local organizations, notably law enforcement and labor unions.
Key Points
-
Formation of Unity PAC: Launched to support moderate candidates in Portland’s local elections.
-
Membership: Includes the Portland Police Association, Portland Fire Fighters’ Association, Northwest Oregon Labor Council, Columbia Pacific Building Trades, and United for Portland.
-
Endorsements:
- City Council District 3: Councilor Steve Novick; newcomer Kellie Torres.
- City Council District 4: Incumbents Olivia Clark; Eric Zimmerman.
- Multnomah County Chair: Julia Brim Edwards.
-
Strategic Goals: The PAC aims to unseat progressive caucus members, while leftist groups seek to challenge centrist liberals.
-
Attack Campaigns: United for Portland is behind negative advertisements targeting incumbent City Councilor Mitch Green.
-
Financial Contributions: While no contributions are recorded on the state’s finance database, four funding sources are identified. The PAC has also budgeted $210,000 for advertising.
Implications
The formation of Unity PAC and its endorsements signify a significant political battle in Portland’s local elections, reflecting the city’s ongoing ideological divides between moderate, progressive, and leftist factions.
