Portland for All condemns political violence, Gonzalez’s effort to libel us

Commissioner Rene Gonzalez is being investigated for a second time for possible campaign finance violations after Portland for All submitted a complaint to the City of Portland when he used taxpayer funds to update his Wikipedia page. 

In his response to board member Jackie Yerby’s complaint, Commissioner Rene Gonzalez made the groundless suggestion Portland for All was involved in a fire that destroyed his parent’s car.

Rene Gonzalez's campaign released the following statement when Portland for All submitted a campaign finance complaint for his use of public funds to update his wikepedia page.

Portland for All condemned the incident when it occurred and has been consistent in strongly condemning any political violence. We expect our leaders to reject political violence and avoid actions that incite acts of violence against our communities. 

We also expect our local officials to act with integrity. Gonzalez has a track record of deceiving the public and responding to legitimate community concerns with personal attacks. In addition to using taxpayer money to update his Wikipedia page to advance his political campaign, video and audio recordings demonstrate Gonzalez lied about being assaulted on the MAX and lied in his 911 call about the incident.

Portlanders deserve better from their elected officials.

In March, Gonzalez used public funds to update his Wikipedia page. One of the rejected edits requested reads: "In December 2023, Gonzalez announced his candidacy for mayor of Portland on the platform of public safety, homelessness, drugs, and revitalizing the economy.”

Gonzalez not only spent City funds to shape his public image, he clearly did so to benefit his candidacy. We believe these contributions do not comply with City and State regulations on campaign contribution sources and limits, expenditure reporting, and acceptable use of public funds.

Voters should be concerned about candidates who skirt the rules and use taxpayer dollars for personal gain. 

Gonzalez has a track record of questionable election practices. During his 2022 run for commissioner, he received dramatically reduced rent for his campaign office from donor Jordan Schnitzer. At the time, a standard 3,000-square-foot downtown office space at 1010 SW 11th Ave. would cost a typical tenant $6,900 monthly. Gonzalez paid only $250 a month.

Portland for All is a nonprofit organization focused on civic engagement, voter education, and advocacy. We aim to build support for inclusive, compassionate, and effective leadership across the city and county. Our volunteers come from a cross-section of the city, including business, racial justice, faith, and nonprofits.