Not surprisingly (and despite earlier, misplaced criticism that Jim Middaugh was sidestepping his connection to Commissioner Erik Sten), Sten sent out a pro-Middaugh missive today, saying the candidate’s “mix of skill, vision and experience is the best I have seen in any candidate I have come across in nearly twenty years of watching every city race closely.” Check it out after the cut.

The timing is interesting. I’m in council chambers, waiting for the council to discuss what to do about public funding in Middaugh’s race. At the moment, it’s unknown if Sten will recuse himself from the discussion, or jump in and advocate for Middaugh to get $200,000 should he make it through the primary.

Erik Sten here with some great news. My Chief of Staff Jim Middaugh just proved that he is THE progressive candidate for Portland City Council.

Today, the Oregon League of Conservation Voters and Oregon Wild gave Jim solo endorsements. Jim also recently picked up an endorsement from Stand for Children and "greenlights" from NARAL Pro-Choice Oregon and Basic Rights Oregon Equality PAC.

I'm asking you to get energized today to build on the momentum created by these important endorsements and the groundswell of support behind Jim's grassroots, voter owned campaign.

Jim's mix of skill, vision and experience is the best I have seen in any candidate I have come across in nearly twenty years of watching every city race closely. I don't say that lightly.

I'm personally asking you to take just a few minutes right now to:

1. Call 5 people and ask them to take a lawn sign.

2. Email 10 people, introduce Jim and his website (www.jimforportland.com) and get them involved.

3. Join Jim Saturday, March 15th at 10 a.m. at the campaign (2034 NE Sandy) and then spend an hour or two talking to targeted voters in your own neighborhood.

Jim has what it takes to succeed on the Portland City Council. Please act today to support his grassroots effort to keep Portland strong.

Sincerely,

Erik Sten

P.S. If you haven't already, please sign up right now as a supporter at www.jimforportland.com.