Former Mayors Sam Adams and Tom Potter Endorse Tawna Sanchez in House District 43

African-American leaders are lining up behind Roberta Philip-Robbins, a Multnomah County gang violence prevention specialist.

The Democratic primary race for an open seat in House District 43 in North and Northeast Portland is getting more competitive by the day.

As WW reported last month, African-American leaders are lining up behind Roberta Philip-Robbins, a Multnomah County gang violence prevention specialist.

Phillip-Robbins, who is also African-American, was the first candidate to jump into the race to succeed state Rep. Lew Frederick (D-Portland), currently Portland's only black lawmaker. He is running for a vacant Senate seat.

Today, Sanchez, who is director of family services at the Native American Youth and Families Center, and has received endorsements from several minority leaders, announced endorsements from former Mayors Sam Adams and Tom Potter.

"Tawna Sanchez cares deeply about Portland's families, and preserving our environmental legacy for future generations," Adams said in a statement. "Tawna's deep roots, community work experience and smarts will make her an effective leader for all of us in Legislature."

"Tawna Sanchez has demonstrated a special brand of leadership deeply rooted in her community and her commitment to building a better future for everyone," Potter added in a statement. "Tawna is that rare leader that has both the toughness and savvy to build consensus and achieve results in Salem."

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