Rep. Blumenauer to champion Portland after retiring from US Congress
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — U.S. Congressman Earl Blumenauer is reflecting on his half-century career in Oregon politics months away from stepping down as a representative of the state's 3rd Congressional District.
Blumenauer also talked about the Portland focus of his retirement plans, specifically trying to make improvements in the city as a private citizen instead of a politician.
"It became clear to me that I could provide more support, more accomplishment, as a civilian than being tied up in Congress," Blumenauer said.
In a presentation put on by the City Club of Portland, Blumenauer spoke about ways Portland needs to improve as well as highlighting the good things it has going on.
"Once you move less than half-mile from the epicenter of the problems, you're in the midst of some of the strongest, most vibrant neighborhoods you will find anywhere in America," he said.
Some of the issues he hopes to shine a light on include dealing with Portland's infrastructure, including hopefully seeing millions of dollars invested around the Albina Neighborhood. Bluemenauer is also excited about opportunities found in bringing a WNBA team tot he Rose City.
"There are opportunities like this that I think really need to be focused on and we move forward for opportunities with the city, the county, Metro and the private sector," he said.
Throughout his presentation, followed by a Q and A with City Club members, Blumenauer discussed the negative outside perception the city has received in recent years. In his own words, "It's not who we are."
"I remain eternally optimistic. We are truly are better together," Blumenauer said.
The congressman is stepping into a new role as a staff member at Portland State University after he retires from Washington D.C. He worked there as a recent Lewis and Clark graduate back in the day. He's set to start that role in January 2025.