PORTLAND — Oregon Treasurer Ted Wheeler is running for Portland mayor, challenging incumbent Charlie Hales.
The decision had been widely expected, as term limits prevent the Democrat from seeking another term as treasurer.
Until February, Wheeler was considered likely to run for what would have been an open governor’s race in 2018.
The picture changed, however, when John Kitzhaber resigned as governor and was replaced by Kate Brown.
Armed with the power of incumbency, Brown is expected to seek the Democratic nomination.
Wheeler’s formal announcement is scheduled for Wednesday morning in southeast Portland.
