KGW’s Straight Talk

Oregon Food Bank on rising hunger and how the new lodging tax could impact tourism

Oregon Food Bank discusses rising hunger while tourism leaders examine how the new lodging tax could impact hotels and short-term rentals.

Dudley eyes governor’s office; new book revisits Atiyeh's legacy

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.

Portland’s economy at a crossroads and Ed Diehl's bid for Oregon governor

On Straight Talk, leaders warn Portland faces a possible economic doom loop. Rep. Ed Diehl details his run for governor and tax priorities.

Advocates discuss bill to protect Oregon's wildlife

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.

How to check if Oregon owes you unclaimed money

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.