Business and Labor Groups Launched Unity PAC

A new political committee is backing moderate candidates for Portland city and county leadership positions.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Unions

Business and Labor Groups Launched Unity PAC

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Should business and labor groups partner to support moderate candidates in your local elections?

Business and labor interests have formed Unity PAC to support moderate candidates for the Portland City Council and Multnomah County chair. The committee aims to shift the current political balance by backing specific challengers in upcoming elections.

Why it matters

The Portland Metro Chamber is utilizing this new committee to challenge members of the city's existing progressive council caucus. This strategic effort seeks to alter the municipal governing majority through targeted candidate endorsements and campaign spending.

Unity PAC has recorded $210,000 in expenditures directed to a Washington D.C. advertising firm. The committee supports candidates including Steve Novick, Kellie Torres, Olivia Clark, Eric Zimmerman, and Julia Brim Edwards.

The players

Unity PAC

This newly formed political action committee represents a coalition of business and labor groups seeking to influence Portland elections.

Portland Metro Chamber

This business advocacy organization is spearheading efforts to challenge the city's current progressive council majority.

Portland Police Association

This union represents law enforcement officers in Portland and is a foundational member of the new political coalition.

United for Portland

This organization participates in the PAC and has previously funded billboard campaigns targeting specific city council members.

Julia Brim Edwards

She is a candidate for Multnomah County chair currently receiving support and recommendations from the Unity PAC.

The details

The committee counts organizations like the Portland Police Association, Portland Fire Fighters' Association, and United for Portland among its members. Through its website, the PAC publishes specific ranking recommendations for voters, while affiliated groups have also engaged in direct advertising against incumbents.

Unity PAC officially launched as a political action committee in October 2026.

Political Context

The establishment of Unity PAC marks a direct electoral challenge to the legislative influence of the Portland City Council progressive caucus. By funding targeted campaigns, the committee seeks to systematically dismantle the political framework currently utilized by that group.

Portland residents will see increased advertising and campaign activity as the PAC advocates for its preferred slate of candidates. These electoral shifts may lead to new legislative priorities if the committee successfully influences the composition of the city council and county chair.

The takeaway

Voters should review the PAC website to understand how these endorsements align with their own preferences for city and county leadership. Understanding the coalition behind these recommendations provides essential insight into the forces competing for governance in Portland.