Legislators say they want to pass campaign contribution limits this session, the editorial board writes. If so, any bill should provide true reforms – not cement in place advantages for their big donors.

The Oregon Government Ethics Commission should have an efficient and transparent way to inform reporters and Oregonians when it has voted to investigate public officials.

While proposals from two commissioners to alter the new form of government approved by voters last year were premature, Portlanders should recognize that building a better government may take adjustments and revisions to the original ballot measure, the editorial board writes.

Despite headlines over the past several months showing why campaign contribution limits are so critical, legislators have been unable to pass a bill with robust, fair caps, the editorial board writes. Legislators need to focus on such a bill for the February short session, or voters will have to do it for them.

Rosenblum recused herself from the investigation into disgraced cryptocurrency executive Nishad Singh, whose $500,000 donation to the Democratic Party of Oregon was falsely reported as coming from a Las Vegas company. Rosenblum should have ensured independence long ago, considering the cozy relationship she and former Secretary of State Shemia Fagan have had with the Democratic Party.

A recent settlement that substantially slashed a fine for the Democratic Party of Oregon for misreporting a $500,000 donation raises significant questions about the ability of Democrats to hold their own party accountable, the editorial board writes.

Shemia Fagan didn't make just one mistake in her dealings with La Mota cannabis chain owners Rosa Cazares and Aaron Mitchell, the editorial board writes. Her acknowledged "poor judgment" occurred repeatedly and reflects her prioritizing self interest over Oregon's. She must resign.

While nonaffiliated candidate Betsy Johnson appears to be third in polling, her candidacy reflects a breakthrough in a state where the two major political parties have near total control over who appears on the November ballot, the editorial board writes. While Democrats are casting her as a spoiler candidate, they – and Republicans – should recognize that it's long past time to open up their primaries and give 41% of Oregon voters a greater say in who their top candidates are.

A measure on the November ballot that would radically transform Portland city government would install a City Council structure unused by any city in the nation, make it harder to hold City Council members accountable and open the door for fringe candidates to win a seat, the editorial board writes. Voters should vote no on Measure 26-228 and look to an alternative from Commissioner Mingus Mapps next year.

The state’s lack of limits means every political year sees millions of dollars pouring into campaigns at all levels of government.