Portland finds a ‘reluctant’ hero, Kotek chooses a business whisperer

OPB Politics Now

Portland finds a ‘reluctant’ hero, Kotek chooses a business whisperer

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Published on Jan 15, 2026, 11:12:49 AM
Total time: 00:21:27

Episode Description

Portland City Council continued this week to choose a leader, before finally settling on one of its own who admitted he wanted nothing to do with the job. Meanwhile, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek is hiring a former Republican rival, who is best known for shutting down the Legislature, to be her chief prosperity officer. On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, we break down the week that was. Find the show anywhere you get your podcasts.

 

Promo: Portland City Council chose a new leader this week. And the new leader doesn’t really want the job.  And Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek hired a former Republican rival, who once led the state’s longest legislative walkout, to be her chief prosperity officer. I’m Lauren Dake. On the latest episode of OPB Politics Now, we will break down the state and city politics of the week. Find the show anywhere you get your podcasts.

 

More about OPB Politics Now

"OPB Politics Now" is a weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into the hottest political topics in Oregon and the Northwest. Every Friday, OPB’s political reporters and special guests offer in-depth analysis, discussion and insight into candidates, events and issues.