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Jesse Cornett

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Jesse Cornett
Image of Jesse Cornett

Nonpartisan

Elections and appointments
Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Kent Meridian High School

Graduate

Portland State University, 2003

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Army Reserve

Years of service

1994 - 2002

Personal
Birthplace
Decatur, Ala.
Profession
Policy director
Contact

Campaign website

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Personal Facebook

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Jesse Cornett ran for election to the Portland City Council to represent District 3 in Oregon. He lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Cornett completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Jesse Cornett was born in Decatur, Alabama. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1994 to 2002. He has also served as a reserve sheriff for Multnomah County. He earned a high school diploma from Kent Meridian High School and a graduate degree from Portland State University in 2003. His career experience includes working as a policy director. He has served as the policy and advocacy director at Oregon Recovers, the director of government relations at Portland State University, and as an aide during Bernie Sanders' 2020 presidential campaign.[1]

Elections

2024

See also: City elections in Portland, Oregon (2024)

General election

General election for Portland City Council District 3

The ranked-choice voting election was won by Steve Novick in round 20 , Tiffany Koyama Lane in round 29 , and Angelita Morillo in round 29 . The results of Round are displayed below. To see the results of other rounds, use the dropdown menu above to select a round and the table will update.

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

Total votes: 84,518
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

To view Cornett's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Cornett in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Video for Ballotpedia

Video submitted to Ballotpedia
Released January 3, 2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Jesse Cornett completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Cornett's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

I am running for Portland City Council because Portland Is Worth Fighting For! I am uniquely positioned to serve on Portland’s new City Council. Having taught Legislative Process at PSU, I understand the intricacies of what will be needed to succeed. Through my experience of running small businesses, I know how challenging bureaucratic barriers are. I have proven to be a collaborative leader, having led the charge to get healthcare access for 55,000 Oregonians. As a top aide to Senator Bernie Sanders during the 2020 Presidential race, I witnessed first hand the impact policy can have on underrepresented communities.
  • If elected, I will have no higher priority than resolving our homelessness crisis. Tents are not the solution. We should prioritize alternatives and rapidly expand our housing stock.
  • We must also address public safety and the addiction crisis. I will help build a public safety system that invests in community policing, non-police first responders and access to treatment.
  • We must assert ourselves as an environmental leader. Our failure to address climate change will forestall lasting solutions to other pressing issues.
Public Safety, Homelessness, Addiction & Recovery, Budgeting
Portland City Council possesses several unique qualities that make it an essential part of Oregon’s government and legal system. The council plays a critical role in addressing complex, urban-specific issues that often serve as a model for statewide initiatives. Portland faces some of the state’s most pressing challenges, including homelessness, housing affordability, addiction, and climate change. The city's policies frequently influence broader state-level discussions and can lead to significant reforms.

The council also serves as a vital link between local and state governments. Its members advocate for legislation and resources that reflect Portland’s unique urban needs, including transportation funding, affordable housing, and public safety reforms. Their ability to influence state policy while innovating locally makes Portland City Council a crucial player in shaping both city and statewide solutions.

Moreover, Portland’s diverse and engaged population gives the council a distinctive role in fostering community-driven policy. The council frequently interacts with a wide range of stakeholders, from grassroots organizations to local businesses, ensuring that the policies they craft reflect the city’s vibrant and diverse voices. This level of engagement allows the council to be dynamic and responsive, adapting quickly to the evolving needs of the city’s residents.

These qualities collectively make the Portland City Council a pivotal institution within Oregon’s governmental framework, both in its local impact and its influence on state-level policies.
I look up to John Lewis, a true icon of civil rights and a lifelong advocate for justice and equality. His courage and unwavering commitment to fighting for what’s right have always inspired me. John Lewis taught me that the moral obligation of leadership is to stand up for those who are marginalized and to challenge injustice wherever it exists. His philosophy of “good trouble” resonates deeply with me, reminding me that real change often comes through persistence and a willingness to push boundaries. His legacy is one I strive to honor in my own approach to public service.

At the same time, I want to emulate the style of Nick Fish, the former Portland City Commissioner, whose approach to leadership was rooted in compassion, collaboration, and listening to the community. Nick was a tireless advocate for Portland. What I admired most about Nick was his ability to bring people together, building consensus and finding common ground even on difficult issues. He was both approachable and effective, qualities that are essential for an elected official to truly serve the public.

By looking up to John Lewis and following Nick Fish’s example, I aim to lead with both courage and compassion. I want to fight for justice and equality in the spirit of John Lewis, ensuring that all voices are heard and all people have access to opportunity. At the same time, I hope to carry out the practical, community-centered leadership that Nick Fish exemplified—listening carefully, building relationships, and always keeping the needs of the people at the forefront of my work. These two figures inspire me to be the kind of leader who combines moral conviction with collaborative, effective governance.
A book that would help someone understand my political philosophy is "The Conscience of a Liberal" by Paul Krugman. This book dives into issues of economic inequality, the role of government, and the power of grassroots movements—topics central to my approach to politics. It emphasizes the importance of policies that build a more equitable society and the need for government intervention to ensure fair opportunities for everyone, especially the working class and marginalized communities. It resonates with my belief in advocating for systemic change, whether in housing, public safety, or climate action, and aligns with my focus on creating a society where the needs of all are addressed, not just those with political or economic power.
The most important characteristics and principles for an elected official include integrity, accountability, empathy, collaboration, vision, adaptability, communication, dedication, and a commitment to justice. Integrity ensures that officials act honestly, transparently, and with ethical responsibility, always prioritizing the public good over personal interests. Accountability is key, as elected officials must be responsible for their actions, regularly reporting on progress and being open to feedback.

Empathy allows officials to genuinely understand and respond to the needs and experiences of their constituents, while collaboration fosters solutions that reflect a range of perspectives and expertise. Vision is essential for setting long-term goals and addressing challenges with foresight and strategic thinking. Adaptability helps an official respond effectively to changing circumstances and evolving needs.

Communication is critical for keeping constituents informed, building trust, and engaging the public. Dedication to public service shows perseverance through challenges and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact. Finally, a focus on justice ensures that decisions and policies promote equity and fairness, with an emphasis on supporting marginalized communities.

These qualities together guide an elected official toward effective leadership that serves the best interests of the people they represent.
The qualities I possess that would make me a successful officeholder begin with my deep commitment to public service and my strong sense of accountability. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated integrity, ensuring that my decisions and actions are always in the best interest of the people I serve. This sense of responsibility, combined with my experience in managing complex policy initiatives, gives me the ability to navigate the challenges Portland faces, whether it's addressing homelessness, housing affordability, or public safety.

Collaboration is one of my strongest assets. I believe in bringing people together to find common ground and create solutions that benefit everyone. My extensive experience working with community organizations, unions, and various levels of government has taught me the importance of listening to different perspectives and crafting policies that reflect the needs of diverse stakeholders. I have a proven track record of successfully advocating for policy changes, securing funding, and implementing solutions that drive real change, from securing healthcare for thousands of Oregonians to my work on addiction recovery.

Additionally, my adaptability allows me to respond effectively to the evolving needs of Portland's communities. Whether tackling new challenges or building on existing initiatives, I am always ready to adapt my approach to find the most effective solutions. My dedication to equity and justice drives me to ensure that the policies I champion are fair, inclusive, and focused on improving the lives of all residents, especially those in marginalized communities. These qualities, along with my passion for public service, give me the skills and mindset necessary to be a successful officeholder.
The core responsibilities for someone elected to Portland City Council center around governance, policy-making, and representing the people of Portland in an equitable and accountable manner. First and foremost, they must work to ensure the delivery of essential city services. This involves managing budgets, setting priorities, and overseeing the implementation of city programs and policies. City council members are also responsible for shaping laws and policies that address the needs of Portland’s residents, which can range from tackling homelessness and improving public safety to advancing sustainability and economic development.

Another crucial responsibility is to represent the diverse voices of the community, ensuring that all residents, especially marginalized groups, have their concerns and interests reflected in city decisions. Listening to constituents, maintaining open communication, and fostering engagement are key parts of this role. Additionally, they must be effective collaborators, working alongside other council members, city staff, and various stakeholders to build consensus and find solutions that benefit the entire city.

Lastly, Portland City Council members are responsible for holding themselves and city departments accountable. This includes setting clear goals, tracking the outcomes of policies, and being transparent with the public about progress and challenges. In a rapidly changing city, they must also adapt to new challenges, advocate for long-term solutions, and work tirelessly to make Portland a more equitable, safe, and vibrant place to live.
The legacy I want to leave is one of compassionate and effective leadership that makes a tangible difference in the lives of Portlanders. I hope to be remembered as someone who brought people together, listened to all voices, and found real solutions to some of the city’s most pressing issues—especially around housing, public safety, and social justice. I want my work to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive Portland, where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to opportunities and the support they need to thrive.

I also want to leave behind a legacy of bold, courageous action in the face of difficult challenges. Like John Lewis, I believe in standing up for what’s right, even when it’s tough. I want to be known for tackling issues like homelessness and addiction head-on, bringing compassion to the forefront of policy while pushing for lasting, systemic change.

At the same time, I’d like to be remembered for my commitment to collaboration and community engagement. I believe in the power of working together to solve problems, and I want to leave behind a record of meaningful partnerships that brought lasting benefits to the city. My goal is to foster trust, transparency, and accountability in government so that future leaders continue building on that foundation.

Ultimately, the legacy I aim for is one where Portland is a stronger, more just city, with a more vibrant community that reflects the collective work of all of us who call it home.
I was 11 when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded. It was a snow day and I was watching at home with my family. It had a profound impact on me as a kid. It was one of the first moments where I realized that the world could change in an instant, and not everything always goes as planned. Watching that tragedy unfold, I remember the sense of disbelief and sadness that followed, especially as we learned more about the astronauts who had trained and prepared for that mission. It was a powerful reminder of the risks and sacrifices involved in pushing the boundaries of exploration and science.

For a child, witnessing such a public tragedy creates a deep awareness of the fragility of life. It also sparked my interest in how communities come together in times of crisis, as I saw people mourn, reflect, and support one another. It was the first time I truly understood how historical events are not just things you read about in books but moments that shape the lives of real people and entire generations. The Challenger explosion taught me about resilience, perseverance, and the importance of continuing to strive for progress, even in the face of great challenges or loss.

As an adult I had the honor of visiting the teachers union in New Hampshire, where Christa McAuliffe, the Challenger astronaut, once taught. I was there with Bernie Sanders, and it was a moving experience to see the memorial dedicated to her. The visit highlighted her legacy as both a teacher and an inspiring pioneer in space exploration and brought this experience back into the fore of my mind.
My first legal job was at McDonald's, though it was a short-lived experience. However, I’ve been working in some capacity since I was 12 years old, cleaning up a shop for a local cabinet maker. While my friends spent their free time playing or participating in after-school activities, I was often focused on how I could not be a burden my family. That early start in the workforce taught me about perseverance, hard work, and sacrifice. It also gave me a deep empathy for others in similar situations—kids who, like me, had to grow up a little too fast and take on responsibilities that most adults didn’t fully understand.

Working at such a young age shaped my understanding of economic hardship and the importance of support systems for families. It’s one of the reasons I feel so strongly about creating opportunities for young people and advocating for policies that make it easier for working families to get ahead. That experience also fuels my commitment to fighting for a more equitable Portland, where no child has to sacrifice their childhood to help their family survive.
If I could be any fictional character, I would want to be Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird. His unwavering sense of justice, integrity, and compassion in the face of adversity has always resonated with me. Atticus stands up for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular or difficult, and he does so with grace and humility. His commitment to fairness and fighting for the marginalized reflects the kind of leader I strive to be—someone who advocates for equity and justice, no matter the personal cost.
This summer, I had the chance to hear my favorite artist, Jason Isbell, cover "Just Like Heaven" by The Cure, and it’s been stuck in my head ever since. The song’s timeless melody and Isbell’s soulful rendition brought new life to the classic. It’s a reminder of how music connects moments and memories, weaving together the past and present in unexpected ways. Hearing one of my favorite artists pay tribute to another iconic band has kept the tune playing on repeat in my mind.
One of the significant struggles in my life has been my recovery from alcohol addiction Overcoming addiction is a deeply personal and challenging journey, and it has shaped who I am today. It taught me about resilience, the power of community support, and the importance of addressing addiction with compassion and comprehensive care. My experience in recovery has not only changed my perspective on life but also inspired me to channel that experience into something meaningful by taking on a leadership role at Oregon Recovers.

At Oregon Recovers, I’ve been able to use my personal journey to advocate for better addiction treatment services and policy reforms that support individuals struggling with substance use. I understand the challenges firsthand, and this gives me a unique perspective on how we can improve the systems of care for those who need it most. My work with Oregon Recovers is driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to the support and resources needed to heal and rebuild their lives. It's about making sure that addiction recovery is not just a personal journey but a community and systemic effort that provides real, effective solutions.

This struggle has become a foundation for my public service, motivating me to fight for those who face similar challenges and to ensure that addiction recovery remains a top priority in Portland. It’s not just about my recovery; it’s about ensuring that others have the opportunities, resources, and support to find their own paths to healing.
One lesser-known responsibility of the Portland City Council is its role in land use and zoning decisions, which significantly impact how the city grows and develops. The council often decides on zoning changes, comprehensive planning, and urban development projects that affect housing affordability, transportation infrastructure, and local businesses. These decisions are crucial in addressing Portland’s housing crisis and managing its growth, but many residents may not realize the extent of the council’s influence in this area.

Another under-recognized power is the council’s quasi-judicial authority in land use appeals. When decisions made by other city bodies, like the Planning and Sustainability Commission, are challenged, the city council acts as the final decision-making body. In these cases, council members effectively serve as judges, evaluating appeals based on legal frameworks, which further shapes city development.

Additionally, the council plays a key role in budget oversight, directly influencing how taxpayer dollars are spent. Each year, council members review, amend, and approve the city’s budget, making decisions that affect the allocation of resources across critical services such as housing, public safety, and parks. This power allows them to prioritize funding for initiatives that address homelessness, infrastructure, and public safety.

These lesser-known powers of the Portland City Council have a profound impact on the city's growth and governance. Greater public awareness of these responsibilities could foster more engaged and informed civic participation, particularly in areas like land use, zoning, and budgetary decisions that shape the future of Portland.
I don't believe that previous experience in government or politics is a requirement for holding office. Fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a genuine commitment to serving the public can be just as valuable, if not more so, than a traditional political background. In fact, individuals from outside the political sphere often bring new solutions to long-standing issues, free from the entrenched systems that sometimes limit progress.

That said, my own extensive experience in government and politics has equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate Portland’s unique challenges. Having worked closely on complex policy initiatives, including securing healthcare for 55,000 Oregonians and leading on addiction recovery efforts, I understand the intricacies of how government functions. My time as a top aide to Bernie Sanders during the 2020 presidential campaign also gave me valuable insights into grassroots organizing and the importance of community-driven solutions. This experience, combined with my work as a reserve deputy sheriff and my years in public service, ensures that I can hit the ground running on day one, effectively addressing the pressing issues Portland faces, from homelessness to public safety.

While I don't believe that prior experience is a necessity, it has given me a strong foundation to lead and serve the people of Portland with the vision and practical knowledge needed to drive real change.
For holders of this office, the most helpful skills include strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders. The complexities of Portland’s challenges require individuals who can bring people together, bridge divides, and foster consensus among community members, city staff, and other elected officials. Having a deep understanding of policy, especially in areas like housing, public safety, and sustainability, is also crucial. A solid grasp of budgeting and resource allocation ensures that funds are used efficiently and equitably to address the city's most pressing issues.

My own skills and expertise are well-suited to meet these demands. With years of experience in public policy, I’ve developed a nuanced understanding of how to craft and implement effective solutions to real-world problems. From my role as a top aide to Bernie Sanders to my leadership in securing healthcare for 55,000 Oregonians, I’ve consistently demonstrated the ability to navigate complex political landscapes and deliver results. My work in addiction recovery further highlights my deep commitment to public service and my ability to engage with both local and state government entities to drive meaningful change.

Collaboration is at the core of my approach. I believe in sitting down with those who hold different views, listening carefully, and working together to find common ground. This has been evident throughout my career, whether in my work with unions, my time in city and state government roles, or my engagement with community organizations. Bringing people together to solve problems is a key part of what I do, and it’s a skill that will be crucial for anyone serving on the Portland City Council.
Portland City Council holds a unique and important place in local government due to its influential role in shaping the city’s future and addressing complex issues like homelessness, public safety, and climate change. The council is a critical decision-making body that helps set the policy direction for Portland, focusing on innovative solutions to the challenges facing the community. From passing key legislation to overseeing budget priorities, the council's decisions have a direct impact on the lives of Portland residents, making their work essential to the city's success.

What sets Portland City Council apart is its ability to act as a bridge between city government and the community. Council members frequently engage with residents, businesses, and organizations to ensure that policy decisions reflect the diverse needs and concerns of the city. This engagement fosters a collaborative environment where community voices are heard, and solutions are co-created. The council’s responsiveness to public input ensures that government remains accountable and transparent in its actions.

Additionally, the council plays a significant role in advancing progressive policies that often set a precedent for other cities. Whether in environmental sustainability or housing policy, Portland City Council has a reputation for pushing forward initiatives that seek to make the city more equitable and livable. Their leadership in these areas makes the council an indispensable part of Portland’s government and civic life.
Oregon State Senators Lew Frederick and Michael Dembrow

Oregon State Representatives Thuy Tran, Rob Nosse, Mark Gamba and Travis Nelson
Multnomah County Commissioner Sharon Meieran and Julia Brim-Edwards
Portland City Commissioners Carmen Rubio and Mingus Mapps
Gresham City Councilors Eddy Morales and Vince Dixon Jones
Former Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski
Former Portland Mayors Sam Adams and Tom Potter
Former Portland City Commissioners Randy Leonard, Jo Ann Hardesty, Mike Lindberg and Dan Saltzman
Metro Councilor Mary Nolan
Portland Firefighters' Association
Portland Association of Teachers PAC
Western States Carpenters
Oregon AFSCME
AFT-Oregon
United for Portland
APANO Action Fund

The Street Trust Action Fund
I believe that financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental pillars of a functioning democracy. Financial transparency ensures that public resources are used responsibly and ethically, allowing the public to see how taxpayer dollars are being spent. It fosters trust between the government and its constituents by providing clear, accessible information about budgets, expenditures, and decision-making processes. In Portland, this is especially critical, as our city faces significant challenges like homelessness, housing affordability, and public safety. People deserve to know that the funds allocated to address these issues are being used effectively and efficiently, without waste or corruption.

Government accountability is closely tied to transparency. Elected officials must be held responsible for their decisions and actions, with clear mechanisms in place to ensure they deliver on promises and follow through on policy initiatives. This means setting measurable goals, regularly reporting on progress, and being open to public scrutiny. When accountability is lacking, it leads to inefficiencies and erodes public confidence in government institutions. I believe in fostering a culture of accountability within government by promoting open dialogue, ensuring oversight, and engaging with constituents to ensure their voices are heard. My commitment to transparency and accountability is rooted in a belief that public officials should serve the community with integrity and that honest, open government is key to making meaningful progress on the issues Portland faces.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

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    Footnotes

    1. ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 8, 2024
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