Dozono still mulling mayoral bid

Sho Dozono is widely seen as the most likely candidate to jump into the Portland mayoral race and actually challenge Sam Adams, who, at this point, is facing no opposition.

But according to Len Bergstein, who is a close friend of Dozono, but has no formal or direct involvement with a potential campaign, Dozono is still seriously weighing his options, and likely won’t make a final decision until after the first of the year.

“Sho is a very family oriented guy, so I think this period between now and the holidays is probably very focused on family for him, and I would not expect a decision before New Years,” Bergstein said.

Even Adams’ own aides have publicly acknowledged that a coronation is not an ideal way to come to office, and that a healthy challenge could serve Adams well.

“The race for Mayor of Portland is one of the most intimate races in Oregon, and I’ve heard supporters of Sam’s including (campaign co-chair and former Mayor) Vera Katz say that it would be a shame for him to be elected without having been tested, and I also think that there’s a sense that Sho would run a very positive campaign, which is an attractive prospect to many people,” Bergstein said.

With less than four months to go until candidates need to file, Portland voters see soon enough how smooth Adams’ ride will be.

Dozono did not return calls seeking comment.