The race is on.
Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and two Councilmembers Vye Against Newcomers on Nov. 4.
Fighting to keep the head post on the dais from 2018, Mayor McEnerny-Ogle is challenged by newcomer Justin Forsman.
Mayor McEnerny-Ogle continues her commitment to public safety, economic development, and affordable housing. Forsman lists more than a dozen issues on his "Freedom Depends on You" campaign, including lowering taxes, fixing potholes, and creating Columbia River crossings.
Mayor McEnerny-Ogle touts her involvement in civic organizations, education, work, and the neighborhood.
"My commitment to Vancouver's quality of life is unwavering, and I look forward to leading our city into its next chapter," she said in her campaign promise.
Mayor McEnerny-Ogle Campaign Promise (Photo: McEnerny-Ogle election website)
Forsman, unlike the mayor, offers very little public or election websites to promote his platform.
Forsman uses social media to get his point across on Facebook. The candidate quotes a political icon when he speaks of the future.
(Photo: Justin Forsman for Mayor website)
"We do not accept the challenge because it's easy, we do it because it's hard", John F. Kennedy said on September 12, 1962.
Council Position 1
Incumbent Councilwoman Kim D. Harless advanced from the August 2025 primary election with a majority of the vote. In her four-year term, the incumbent assisted with homeownership issues, supporting policies and funding that help the unhoused find a home.
Harless is running again to ensure that Vancouver's climate policy is implemented effectively, with urgency, and includes Indigenous knowledge and wisdom.
"This seat isn't mine-it's ours," Harless said on her website.
She said she wants every policy to be fair, every process transparent, and every neighborhood to be heard.
Local business owner Pooneh Gray also moved on to the General Election, placing second in the primary. Gray runs a more moderate campaign, focusing on family support issues.
"When we work together, we can create real, lasting change that reflects our shared values and goals," she said on her website.
Homelessness is also an issue for Gray, who is in favor of restricting and "eventually prohibiting urban camping" while expanding transitional housing, drug recovery, and mental health services.
Gray advocates for law enforcement funding; however, she does not feel that any money should support mental health professionals and social workers, who assist police officers.
Council Position 2
Incumbent Councilman Erik Paulson, a longtime Vancouver resident and financial services professional, was first appointed in 2019 and was elected to his current term in 2021.
"I'm running for re-election to Vancouver City Council, Position Two because I love this community," Paulsen said on his website.
Noting that housing affordability is a critical issue as demand outpaces supply, Paulsen believes the city should assist with strategies to provide housing at all income levels. He also supports investing in infrastructure to make Vancouver safer for cyclists and pedestrians.
Challenger Derek Thompson stands on the slogan "When the Citizens Thrive, the City Thrives as Well."
Thompson, who has been a resident for 13 years, is fighting for public safety, community trust, mental health support, veteran advocacy, and fostering responsible growth.
"I am prepared to work diligently with my fellow council members, city staff, and, most importantly, the residents of Vancouver, to bring about tangible, positive change," said Thompson on his website.
Council Position 3
Incumbent Diana H. Perez is seeking a second term on the dais. Perez is running a progressive re-election campaign focused on combating homelessness.
"Having the honor of serving on the Vancouver City Council, I am committed to continuing my role in leading this great city with purpose and intention, ensuring that every resident benefits and has an opportunity to reach their fullest potential," Perez said on her website.
She states that stable housing benefits the community at large, making neighbors feel safe and secure in their homes. She also believes in access to affordable housing options.
Perez is also a proponent of encouraging small and micro-businesses to operate in Vancouver, while making sure they have the resources to pay employees a living wage.
Resident Robert Elkin is challenging Perez for her post.
According to the Progressive Voters Guide, "Elkin and his family advocated for the reopening of Vancouver Fire Station 6, which he cites as his inspiration for running for local government."
Unlike other candidates who have websites, Elkin's information is only available through the guide.
"Elkin's platform is limited, prioritizing public safety, budget transparency, and homelessness," according to the guide. "While Elkin offers some progressive values, like the need to address systemic barriers that perpetuate homelessness, his platform lacks specific strategies he would implement if elected."
OpGov.ai will post all local election results on the night of the November General Election.
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