Rachel Ohm

Staff Writer

Rachel covers state government and politics for the Portland Press Herald. It’s her third beat at the paper after stints covering City Hall and education. Prior to her arrival at the Press Herald in the summer of 2019, Rachel worked at the Morning Sentinel in Waterville, covering Franklin and Somerset counties, and the Knoxville News Sentinel in Knoxville, Tennessee, covering higher education. She has a master’s degree in journalism from New York University and when she’s not writing and reporting enjoys running, cooking and traveling to new places.

Opponents of Portland referendums hold significant fundraising advantage

by Rachel Ohm November 1, 2022November 1, 2022

More than $1.1 million has been raised to fight a slate of referendums before city voters, while just over $100,000 has been raised to support them.

Local & State

Portland issues first fine for violation of pesticide use ordinance

by Rachel Ohm October 31, 2022October 31, 2022

Seabreeze Property Services was fined $500 for spraying an herbicide at a property managed by Avesta Housing on Stevens Avenue in August.

Election 2022, Local & State

Uber, Lyft drivers in Portland not all sold on minimum-wage referendum

by Rachel Ohm October 29, 2022October 29, 2022

Proponents of Question D say an $18 minimum wage will improve conditions for workers in the “gig economy,” but some drivers say they’re already paid fairly and worry about how companies might respond if the question passes.

Election 2022, Local & State, Politics

Hillary Clinton endorses proposal to raise Portland’s minimum wage

by Rachel Ohm October 28, 2022October 28, 2022

The former U.S. senator from New York, secretary of state and presidential candidate appears in a new ad for One Fair Wage Portland.

Election 2022, Local & State

Portland waterfront workers urge ‘no’ vote on Question E

by Rachel Ohm October 26, 2022October 25, 2022

Some opponents are worried people don’t know enough about the proposal or that the group behind it is now advocating for a new plan.

Pious Ali, Aqeel Mohialdeen, Richard Ward

Election 2022, Local & State

Portland councilor faces challenge from 2 newcomers in at-large race

by Rachel Ohm October 21, 2022October 21, 2022

Pious Ali, who was first elected to the council in 2016, is running for reelection against Aqeel Mohialdeen and Richard Ward.

Election 2022, Local & State

Affordable housing crisis top issue for Portland’s District 3 City Council candidates

by Rachel Ohm October 21, 2022October 20, 2022

Nathaniel Ferguson and Regina Phillips, both political newcomers, are running to fill the seat currently held by Tae Chong, who is not running for reelection.