The Portland Business Alliance called for an end to “political violence” on June 23rd, and it may affect Mayor Ted Wheeler during a new recall effort. Ted Wheeler has been accused of heightening tension or worse with protesters, once even saying “...let’s make them hurt a little bit,” the day after a Portland police officer was punched in the face. The comments were not plainly directed at the Mayor, but it may be an indicator that support for Ted Wheeler is waning in Portland’s business community.
Smaller business associations, like Business for a Better Portland, have not voiced an opinion on the recall effort, but some small businesses have already come out in support. Most prominently, one of the largest contributors to the effort, Nightowl Custom Apparel, is also providing merchandise for the recall. Another company, not affiliated with the effort, is also selling recall Ted Wheeler shirts. The business community was the largest contributor to Ted Wheeler’s re-election campaign and losing their support could signal the end of Ted Wheeler’s political career.