Joe the Plumber, who questioned Obama’s tax proposals during the 2008 campaign, has died at 49
Samuel "Joe" Wurzelbacher, who was thrust into the political spotlight as "Joe the Plumber" after questioning Barack Obama about his economic proposals during the 2008 presidential campaign, and who later forayed into politics himself, has died, his son said Monday. He was 49.
Obama seeking to streamline permitting for federal projects
President Obama has launched an initiative that includes several steps designed to improve permitting and coordination among federal agencies for transportation projects.
Federal budget cuts, more project labor agreements could influence local firms
President Barack Obama and Congress may soon make some decisions that would significantly affect multiple sectors – including the construction industry. Actions concerning sequestration and project labor agreements could influence operations of Oregon firms.
ABC responds to Obama’s SOTU address, doesn’t like it
President Obama delivered his State of the Union address Tuesday evening largely focusing on the economy and the growing wealth gap in the U.S. He said we should restore the economy to one where “everyone gets a fair shot." But the Associated Builders and Contractors trade association said the speech was just more of the same from the president.
Oregon construction industry would get $770M from Obama’s jobs plan
As more details emerge about President Obama’s proposed American Jobs Act, as much as $770.6 million could be injected into the Oregon’s construction industry.
Obama jobs bill could send $324.2M to Oregon public schools
Oregon public schools could be eligible for modernization and infrastructure improvement funds if President Obama’s American Jobs Act is approved by Congress.
Reactions mixed to Obama’s jobs plan for construction industry
Initial reaction was mixed to President Barack Obama's Thursday night jobs proposal that includes $105 billion for infrastructure and construction spending. Industry professionals say federal spending on construction projects is sorely needed, but they don't believe the jobs will last.
Federal government and private sector invest millions in biofuels
President Obama announced today that the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Energy and Navy will invest up to $510 million into biofuels during the next three years.
Obama emphasizes alternative fuel in energy speech
President Obama was slated to speak on reducing oil imports and increasing domestic energy production at Georgetown University this morning. In addition to a spiel about reducing dependence on foreign […]
Obama emphasizes alternative fuel in energy speech
President Obama was slated to speak on reducing oil imports and increasing domestic energy production at Georgetown University this morning. In addition to a spiel about reducing dependence on foreign […]
Obama budget includes light rail, CRC funding
President Obama's proposed fiscal 2012 budget includes $200 million for the Portland to Milwaukee Light Rail Project and the potential for up to $400 million for the Columbia River Crossing Project.
Obama launches program to make commercial buildings more energy efficient
President Obama yesterday announced the launch of a new program that would make commercial buildings 20 percent more energy efficient during the next 10 years. The program is called the […]
News
- Multnomah County commits up to $101.6M for Moda Center
- Portland code changes to take effect in November
- Los Colibris project approved for Portland’s OMSI District
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $9.9 million in top bidders | Aug. 7, 2026
- Oregon opens infrastructure grant program
- Ex-TV host claps back at Detroit officials in blight case
- 31-unit multifamily project in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 3, 2026
- $2.4 million office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 3, 2026
- Transportation commission weighs ODOT budget cuts
- Lam Research planning $1.7 billion investment in Tualatin
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $10.6 million in top bidders | July 31, 2026
- Many Oregon counties struggling to maintain their fairgrounds
Commentary
- Beware of when the debt collector comes calling | Opinion
- Assembly of a future workforce begins with an invitation | Opinion
- Beware of overlooking legal requirements for remote workers | Opinion
- Become a critical thinker and transform a workplace | Opinion
- Managing construction risks with international suppliers | Opinion
- A rally with many engines: the lesson of 2026’s first half | Opinion
- Oregon housing challenges persist despite sound and fury | Opinion
- When does an employee’s bullying become harassment? | Opinion
- Ditch disorganization — the cost of deferred decisions | Opinion
- Consider 10 common risks for healthcare construction projects | Opinion
- Clarifying the reach of a law regarding prevailing wage | Opinion
- Adjust to legal changes now to ensure compliance later | Opinion








