Oregon — Campaign finance reports filed with Oregon’s public disclosure system, ORESTAR, show a stark fundraising gap in the Democratic primary for governor, with incumbent Gov. Tina Kotek holding a massive financial advantage over several challengers.
According to the most recent filings, Kotek’s campaign committee, Friends of Tina Kotek, reported more than $2.62 million in cash on hand as of its latest 2026 reporting period. The campaign raised $546,123.61 in total contributions this year, including more than $540,000 in cash contributions, while spending about $401,034 during the same period.
The governor also entered the year with a large war chest, reporting a beginning balance of $2.47 million, which has helped maintain her dominant financial position in the race.
By contrast, several lesser-known Democratic candidates reported minimal fundraising activity.
Portland political director Fora Alexander, running through the committee Friends of Fora, reported $2,463 in total contributions in 2026 and $163.04 in cash on hand, with the campaign carrying $470 in accounts payable and a reported balance deficit of $306.96.
Eugene candidate Brittany Jones, whose campaign committee is B.J. for Oregon, reported $399 in total contributions this year and $462.90 cash on hand, along with $388.64 in outstanding personal expenditures.
Grants Pass candidate Khaled K. Kishawi, running through the committee Cal for Oregon, reported no contributions, expenditures, or cash balance in the most recent filing period.
Another candidate, Miranda Weigler, a Portland strategy and communications consultant running through the committee Friends of Miranda Weigler, also reported no contributions or expenditures in the latest filings.
The filings highlight the steep financial hurdle facing challengers in the Democratic primary. Oregon campaign finance law places no limits on contributions, often giving incumbents or well-established candidates a major advantage in building early campaign resources.
With the May 2026 primary approaching, Kotek’s multi-million-dollar campaign account positions her as the overwhelming financial frontrunner in the Democratic field.
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