Why I’m running for Portland Mayor

Dear Portlanders,

Portland is at a pivotal moment in its history.

The challenges we face today—homelessness, public safety concerns, infrastructure upkeep, and mental health and addiction crises—are some of the most daunting in our 173 years. But I believe in Portland’s resilience, and I know these challenges are not insurmountable. We have the tools, the civic pride, and the potential to build a stronger and more united Portland. 

Over the last few years, we’ve made some important strides, but we can all agree it’s not enough. The city’s full recovery requires clear vision and experienced leadership—leaders who learn from the past, make data-driven decisions, and bring our city’s diverse voices together to tackle our problems head-on. Years of ineffective policies, unclear roles, and hesitation have held us back, but I am confident that with the right approach, we can transform businesses, transform neighborhoods, and transform lives in a way that uplifts every Portlander.

We have solutions at our fingertips: Temporary Alternative Shelter Sites and Safe Rest Villages have already begun to stabilize hundreds of our homeless neighbors, offering real pathways to permanent housing with critical wraparound services. Now is the time, we need to continue to scale these successes, making sure that we bring more beds and resources online as quickly as possible. Rock bottom in Portland should never be a tent or an RV on the streets. 

As we approach one of the most significant government transitions in Portland’s history, experienced leadership will be more important than ever. That is why I want to be your next mayor. In my role as a City Commissioner, I have overseen over one-third of the city’s workforce, more than half of its annual budget, and 95% of all public assets. I know firsthand what it will take to guide Portland through this change—ensuring the transition strengthens our governance and fosters the change that we so desperately need. 

But beyond the policies and the numbers, this mission is personal. As a father of two Black sons, I want them to grow up in a Portland where they—and everyone—can be themselves, love freely, and feel safe. I want a Portland where every person—regardless of who they are—is treated with dignity, respect, and humanity.

This isn't about political ambition. It’s about my love for this city—the city that raised me, shaped me and made me who I am today. Now, I’m ready to step up and help lead Portland into its next chapter. Together, we can build a city that is safe, equitable, and prosperous for all.

I invite you to join me in this movement. Your support means everything. Please sign up for updates below and stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities to get involved in this exciting next chapter of Portland’s history

Let’s make Portland better together!

Thank you.