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Straight Talk is a weekly program that takes a deeper look into the topics and conversations that are affecting communities in Oregon and SW Washington. KGW's Stephanie Domurat leads insightful interviews and provides candid conversations with local politicians and community leaders. "KGW's Straight Talk" is also a podcast available on all major podcast platforms.
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Oregon Food Bank discusses rising hunger while tourism leaders examine how the new lodging tax could impact hotels and short-term rentals.
Chris Dudley outlines his plan for Oregon as he mounts another run for governor, and author Jim Moore examines Vic Atiyeh’s legacy ahead of November.
On Straight Talk, leaders warn Portland faces a possible economic doom loop. Rep. Ed Diehl details his run for governor and tax priorities.
The bipartisan Oregon House Bill 4134, introduced in the 2026 short session, would raise the state's Transient Lodging Tax by 1.25%, raising tens of millions of dollars in new funding that would go to the Oregon Conservation Strategy fund, which would have its name changed to the Recovering Oregon's Wildlife Fund.
Oregon Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner was a guest on this week's episode of Straight Talk to discuss how Oregonians can check for any unclaimed money that they might be owed by the state, as well as her tenure as treasurer. Steiner served in the state Senate for 13 years prior to becoming the first woman and first physician to hold the office of treasurer.
Feb. 1 is National Unclaimed Property Day, and last year the Oregon treasury returned almost $60 million in unclaimed property to Oregonians.
According to Steiner, it happens because businesses, banks, and insurance companies are obligated to try to return property or money to its rightful owner, but if they're unable to make contact within 3 years, they have to turn it over to the state treasury for it to be held in trust for the person or their heirs.
Oregon lawmakers preview a high-stakes 35-day session, debating budget cuts, ODOT funding, affordability and what’s possible before the clock runs out.
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield says 53 lawsuits against the Trump Administration has protected $4.6 billion in federal funding for the state.
Oregon’s chief economist breaks down the 2026 economic outlook, while housing experts explain what lower rates and a shifting real estate market mean for buyers.
If the Supreme Court strikes down some tariffs without backup revenue source, it could mean higher costs for Oregonians after nearly avoiding a downturn last year.
The tightening of Multnomah County’s drug deflection program comes amid what District Attorney Nathan Vasquez describes as low participation — and an even lower level of accountability.
Speaking on KGW’s "Straight Talk," Vasquez said many people referred to deflection were technically counted as “engaged” despite never entering or remaining in treatment, with only a small fraction completing what he considers meaningful services.
Under the change, people caught with illegal drugs may face criminal charges if they fail to meaningfully engage in treatment, though Vasquez said the goal is not punishment. He said cases would typically be handled through conditional discharge and court supervision, which he described as another tool to push people toward treatment rather than jail.
Oregon Symphony CEO discusses how the orchestra brings tens of thousands of people downtown on 100+ concert nights annually, helping revitalize downtown Portland.
Amid holiday stress, Latino Network brings hope and gifts to Portland’s immigrant families through the KGW Great Toy Drive.
Mayor Keith Wilson details Portland’s progress on shelter beds, the return of camping ban enforcement, and his plans for housing, parks and public safety in 2025.
Oregon's first Chief Privacy Officer Nik Blosser explains state's AI plans and privacy concerns, while Christine Drazan talks campaign for governor, GOP primary.
Air traffic controllers return to work and Rep. Maxine Dexter defends her vote as the U.S. faces ongoing aviation and health care challenges.
KGW's Stephanie Domurat talks with Oregon leaders about the SNAP benefits crisis and to Republican Danielle Bethell about her bid for governor.
Oregon's adjutant general discusses federalized Guard troops on standby in Portland. Plus, Multnomah County library director on expansion and safety.
Portland councilors explain what the new Protect Portland Initiative does against federal immigration overreach.
Oregon’s seniors face rising scams and housing struggles. Experts warn urgent action is needed to protect older adults and their futures.
Portland has been at the center of a whirlwind legal battle in recent days, with President Donald Trump characterizing the city as a lawless war zone and pushing to send in National Guard troops under federal command — only to be repeatedly blocked by Judge Karin Immergut after Oregon sued, arguing that the anti-ICE protests have been largely peaceful and Trump is mischaracterizing the situation.
Professor Tung Yin was a guest on this week's episode of Straight Talk to help make sense of the rapidly evolving court fight and break down what's likely to happen next. Yin is a professor of law at the Lewis and Clark Law School, whose areas of expertise include national security and terrorism law.
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