Candidates for Portland Mayor Discuss Economy, Homelessness, and Inequality in Debate

The race for Portland mayor is heating up as three candidates took the stage for a debate focused on the city’s pressing issues. Portland City Commissioners Mingus Mapps and Carmen Rubio, along with businessman Keith Wilson, discussed their plans to address the economy, homelessness, and inequality in the city.

Hosted by The National Association of Minority Contractors and moderated by KOIN 6 News Political Director Ken Boddie, the debate highlighted the candidates’ strategies for supporting businesses and organizations of color. Each candidate emphasized the importance of unity and finding common ground among Portland’s diverse population.

Mapps, a person of color, spoke about being a voice for others like him and bridging the gap in the community. Rubio emphasized the need for bringing people together and focusing on results, while Wilson proposed immediate action to address public safety concerns.

Community leaders in attendance raised tough questions about workplace safety, particularly for Latino construction workers. The candidates all expressed a commitment to holding businesses accountable for safety standards.

The debate also addressed disparities for businesses owned by people of color, with a focus on creating clearer paths for young people to enter these careers. Despite some candidates dropping out of the race, the competition for Portland mayor remains fierce with new contenders entering the field.