Oregon Journalism Project
102 posts
Wheels of justice grind slowly in Douglas County election dispute
“But I know this: there are going to be fireworks.” BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project A…
July 16, 2025
Veteran GOP lawmaker sided with Democrats on transportation. Why?
Kevin Mannix changed his vote after a large appropriation to a project he favors. He says there’s no…
July 15, 2025
National for-profit Medicaid provider’s difficulties relevant to Oregon, Linn County
Centene disclosed bad news to Wall Street. It owns a large coordinated care organization that serves six counties…
July 15, 2025
As Gov. Kotek scrambles to save ODOT union jobs, here are positions being cut and vacated
The layoffs are slated for the end of July. ODOT would also erase vacant positions. BY NIGEL JAQUISS…
July 14, 2025
Merkley will run for re-election in 2026
“It was a difficult decision.” BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) told…
July 10, 2025
New lawsuit says Oregon’s closed primaries violate the constitution
The challenge comes as more Oregonians than ever are excluded from primary contests that decide many general elections.…
July 9, 2025
Big Pink has new owner
Auto dealer Jeff Swickard places a big bet on Portland—and Oregon’s—future. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project Jeff…
July 9, 2025
Gov. Kotek prepares to launch reelection bid; Merkley not talking
U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley’s continued silence is fanning speculation he will not run. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism…
July 8, 2025
Man who wants to kill vote-by-mail in Oregon contests a May election result
Ben Edtl is working to save his job—and change the way Oregonians cast their ballots. BY NIGEL JAQUISS…
July 8, 2025
ODOT chief details layoffs in staff email
Kotek warns of dire consequences for Oregonians from funding shortfall. By Nigel Jaquiss Oregon Journalism Project …
July 7, 2025
Passage of Trump tax bill imperils Rose Quarter freeway expansion and caps
Although the bill rescinds “unobligated” funds, Albina Vision Trust remains optimistic about $488 million in federal highway grants. …
July 3, 2025
Drazan blasts ODOT messaging after legislative failure
As the agency prepares for layoffs, the House Republican leader chastises the department’s director. By Nigel Jaquiss…
July 3, 2025
Mysterious liquor privatization initiative moves forward
The Oregon Beer and Wine Distributors Association, which has opposed previous privatization attempts and opposes this one also…
July 2, 2025
Feds say Robert Pamplin Jr. dragged his feet in making pensioners whole
The industrialist admitted violating pension laws. As he slowly makes amends, other creditors are coming for him. …
July 2, 2025
ODOT layoffs will hit Key Democratic constituency
SEIU represents half of the Oregon Department of Transportation’s nearly 5,000 employees. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project…
July 1, 2025
Controversial Willamette Falls funding proceeds
The project rests in the district of Salem’s most powerful lawmaker. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project As…
June 30, 2025
Hunters and environmentalists join together to fight for lodging tax increase
The unlikely allies face opposition from the hospitality industry and legislative maneuvering. By JAMES NEFF Oregon Journalism Project…
June 26, 2025
Kotek vetoes three bills relating to child welfare
The governor plays hardball after the defeat of one of her priority bills. Lawmakers push back. BY…
June 26, 2025
Prevailing wage expansion advances with key questions unanswered
Trade unions strongly support extending higher-wage requirements to off-site fabrication but lawmakers—and legislative lawyers—don’t know whether or how…
June 24, 2025
GOP candidate for governor gets first big check
Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell gains support from a top Republican donor. The first big check in the…
June 23, 2025
Under pressure, Travel Oregon reveals CEO’s new salary
The agency will continue paying Todd Davidson handsomely in retirement. BY JAMES NEFF Oregon Journalism Project After…
June 21, 2025
Senate President boots dissident senator off Transportation Committee, appoints himself in bid to save bill
House Bill 2025 still faces a difficult path on House and Senate floors. BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon…
June 20, 2025
Time running out on bill aimed at helping wildfire victims
Senate Bill 926 would pressure PacifiCorp to pay compensation before a federal tax break expires. BY NIGEL…
June 20, 2025
Travel Oregon officials give well-paid CEO retirement deal, but won’t divulge details
Todd Davidson ran the state tourism agency for three decades while making one of the highest salaries in…
June 18, 2025
Bottle Bill rules get changes in response to pushback
By Nigel Jaquiss Oregon Journalism Project The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission today ratified changes to the Bottle…
June 17, 2025