In Portland, Oregon, Democratic Socialist city councilor Mitch Green is facing growing opposition after previous social media posts in which he described police officers as “bastards” and “absolute monsters” resurfaced, sparking a sharp response from local officials and community leaders. The scandal has bolstered both his fundraising efforts and public profile as he campaigns for re-election amid a sharply divided political landscape.
Following the revelation of Green’s posts, the Portland Police Association president called for his resignation, the police chief expressed loss of confidence, and Mayor Keith Wilson publicly criticized Green’s stance, distancing himself from candidates who advocate for defunding law enforcement. Despite the backlash, Green has refused to retract his earlier statements, saying his “spicy” language reflects a firm commitment to his principles. “I just chose not to,” Green said in reference to calls for an apology.
Green, a military veteran with a Ph.D. in economics, first drew national attention last year for urging active-duty troops via social media to disobey orders they viewed as unlawful, including federalization of National Guard troops during protests sparked by George Floyd’s murder. His divisive comments emerged during a period of intense nationwide protests and debates over policing practices.
Portland’s recent political reforms—including replacing at-large council seats with district-based representation and adopting ranked-choice voting—have facilitated the rise of politicians like Green and other members of the Democratic Socialists of America (D.S.A.). Currently, the City Council is evenly split between six progressives, four of whom identify with the D.S.A., and six moderates. While routine governance often achieves unanimous votes, budget proposals and leadership decisions frequently end in deadlocks.
The contest for half of the council’s seats this November poses a significant test for the D.S.A.’s electoral strength and capacity to sustain governing influence. Green and his allies argue that their bold, unapologetic approach to politics resonates with voters seeking clear stances. Olivia Clark, a moderate councilor, acknowledged that although Green’s posts were “painful and sad,” they have undeniably energized his support base. “They don’t apologize… They double down,” she said.
Opposition to Green comes not only from police and city officials but also from local business groups and public employee unions frustrated by progressive efforts to limit police powers and restrict public subsidies for prominent local enterprises, such as the Trail Blazers. Billboards urging voters to “Ditch Mitch” have appeared broadly across Portland, signaling a coordinated campaign to unseat him.
The city continues to grapple with economic and social challenges resembling those that afflicted other U.S. urban centers during industrial decline, with rising costs of living and employment concerns fueling political debate. Andrew Hoan, president of the Portland Metro Chamber of Commerce, attributes these issues to long-standing liberal policies, homelessness, drug addiction, and high business taxes. In contrast, the D.S.A. advocates for increased taxation on corporations paired with expanded social services aimed at supporting working-class residents.
Looking beyond this election cycle, the Democratic Socialists are preparing for a more consequential set of elections in 2028, when Portland’s mayor and additional council seats are contested. Meanwhile, they are advancing policy proposals, including higher taxes on public companies and a forthcoming ban on police use of tear gas. The outcome of these efforts will likely shape Portland’s political and social landscape in the years ahead.