At-large city council candidate Ben Grant spoke to the media outside Portland city hall on Oct. 17, 2024, urging changes to the city's clean election rules.

The crowded race has drawn a repeat candidate, a state lawmaker, a school board member, a community activist and a neighborhood association member.

With all 3 sitting city councilors relinquishing their seats, local elections have drawn a range of political veterans and newcomers. The November ballot also includes 3 school board seats.

Ben Grant, who filled Roberto Rodriguez's seat on the school board in 2022, is again campaigning to succeed him in November.

“I am running because Portland deserves a politics that leads to progress. I am running to bring energy, enthusiasm, and experience to the work of building a better future for all of Portland’s people,” Grant said. “This effort will be focused on making Portland livable and affordable to all working people..”