Second attempt: group to petition for Adams recall

PORTLAND, Ore. - One year after Mayor Sam Adams admitted to having a relationship with past Legislative intern Beau Breedlove, the “Recall Sam Adams” group plans to file for another recall Wednesday morning after an attempt over the summer failed.

Unlike the failed effort, this time around the group will be headed by big-name backers like former state Sen. Avel Gordley.

When Adams admitted to having a relationship with Breedlove, it divided Adams’ supporters. His detractors now say he lied to get elected.

The group declined to comment Tuesday night and said they will wait to speak about their latest attempt to recall Portland’s mayor after they make their effort official.

The same rules will be true this time as last. The group will need about 32,000 signatures and will have three months to get them.

The group said they plan to submit the necessary paperwork in the morning with the secretary of state’s office and in downtown Portland.

But do voters think the issue is important?

“He seems like he’s back doing his job, and it doesn’t seem to be as big of an issue any more,” said voter Kelleen Bernard.

Another voter, however, said he still can’t get over the fact Adams lied about his relationship with Breedlove.

“I’m not sure I would sign a petition,” said voter Bob Fowke. “It is an issue - honesty in politics.”

Over the last year, Breedlove - once the center of the scandal - posed nude for “Unzipped Magazine” and just announced he’s working on publishing a book.

On Tuesday, Adams’ office dodged answering the question whether it was worried about the second recall attempt.

Adams’ communications director, Roy Kaufmann, said the Mayor is currently in Washington, D.C. with other mayors across the country to meet with President Barack Obama and Sen.

Majority Leader Harry Reid.

Kaufmann said Adams is “focused on the work of creating a sustainable and prosperous economy, and highlighting Portland’s achievements on the national stage.”