What to know about Portland's 2026 election
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If you couldn't tell from the constant campaign ads and mailers, election season is upon us and it's time to get up to speed on what'll be on your ballot.
Why it matters: Portland voters will decide who holds the balance of power on City Council and who will lead the County Commission, while weighing in on whether Gov. Tina Kotek gets another term.
👀 City Council
Three seats are up for grabs each in Districts 3 and 4, as crowded fields of candidates compete in the city's second election using ranked-choice voting.
- All six incumbents are seeking reelection. District 3 voters will choose from 21 candidates, while District 4 voters will choose from 12.
- Check out OPB's in-depth look at who is running in District 3 and District 4.
- The council has frequently deadlocked 6-6 during its first two-year term under Portland's new form of government, with its six progressive councilors often voting as a bloc.
🪑 Multnomah County Commission
Two seats on the Multnomah County Commission are up for grabs: District 2 commissioner and commission chair.
- Three candidates are running for chair, while seven are vying for the District 2 seat.
💰 Ballot measure 26-267
The sole ballot measure up for a vote this year would amend Portland's charter to give residents a say in how to spend 2% of the city's discretionary budget.
✅ Statewide races
All of Oregon's congressional districts and one of the state's U.S. Senate seats will be on the ballot this year. The Cook Political Report considers each race safe for the incumbent.
- Yes, but: The state's top office is in play, with recent polls showing narrow leads for Republican challenger Christine Drazan and Democratic incumbent Kotek.
- Brett Smith, of the Pacific Green Party of Oregon, is also running as a longshot candidate.
What's next: Ballots are due no later than 8pm on Nov. 3.