Former State Representative Mike Fahey and Portland Public Schools Development Director John Branam have endorsed me in the runoff for Portland City Commissioner #1. I am honored to have earned the support of these two former candidates for the seat, especially since they heard all my position statements over the past 5+ months, and gave many great answers themselves. Mike's labor supporters and John's school affiliates, in particular, were likely torn between the good choices offered in the primary.

John wrote to his supporters yesterday:

"Portland's future is bright. We are an amazing city because of our location, our history, our values and our people. Even as I cycle off the campaign I will continue to work, as do each of you, to make our city the most livable in America. As I shared during my run, doing so means becoming increasingly serious about the quality of our schools, while also working to sharply reduce our carbon footprint and support our small businesses. Additionally, it is imperative that we further evolve, as a city, into one that values all voices at the table, and whose leadership embodies this value by leading us in a collaborative manner.

Which brings me to a most important thought. As you can imagine, I had the privilege of getting to know my fellow candidates quite well while on the trail. In fact, we spent quite a bit of time together. I also became incredibly familiar with our city, and City Hall, and believe I have a very clear sense of the kind of leader Portland needs. As between Amanda Fritz and Charles Lewis my choice is clear: I absolutely support Amanda Fritz for Portland City Council. Amanda has the collaborative leadership style Portland needs, as well as the thoughtful experience to move our city in the right direction. Thus, even as I take time to reconnect to those parts of my life I neglected during the campaign, I will actively support Amanda's campaign for City Council. Please join me in doing so, she is the right choice for Portland."

Mike Fahey is also already helping me connect with his supporters. Look for joint appearances at events over the summer and into the fall, and active participation of new volunteers coming to my campaign thanks to these endorsements.

I am very happy to have the support of these two fine men ... and more so to call them friends, after five months of running in the same race. As John often said in the campaign, Portland needs collaborative leadership. Mike talked repeatedly of jobs and helping working families. It is surely a testament to our positive, issue-oriented styles and shared values, that within a week of Election Night, John and Mike are working with me on a newly united goal.

Thank you, Mike Fahey and John Branam!