I am excited to vote for Marcques Houston for the District 4 seat on the Charter Commission.

Marcques is not just a friend and colleague – he is an emerging leader who I respect and admire. As a Black lifelong Mainer and a first-generation college graduate from a working-class family, Marcques has many attributes that make him an excellent Charter Commission candidate.

He listens with deep respect and consideration, earnestly seeks to understand the views of others and effectively collaborates in a team-oriented way. He has a thirst for new learning and research. He has strong values regarding fairness and equity, and a common-sense approach.

A dedicated Democrat, Marcques has been in the trenches much of his life working for fair wages, social and economic equity, investment in education and child care and protecting the environment. He is a proven leader in working to make our community better.

He is running against Cheryl Leeman, longtime Republican, city councilor for 30 years and past public opponent of a Charter Commission.

District 4 needs a fresh voice who is dedicated to Democratic values, and has a commitment to help make Portland’s government become more transparent, responsive and accountable.

Please consider joining me in voting for Marcques Houston for the District 4 seat on the Charter Commission on June 8.

John Thibodeau
Portland