Portland’s Role in the National Fluoride Fight
Did you know that Portland is the largest U.S. city without fluoride in its drinking water? Since 1965, voters have consistently rejected it. Portland isn’t alone: Lebanon, Oregon, recently voted to stop adding fluoride to drinking water, and Hillsboro rejected a proposal to introduce it. With fluoride in the spotlight, we’re asking: Is it really that bad? Why are we so resistant to fluoridated water? Today, Washington Post public health reporter Fenit Nirappil joins us to discuss Oregon’s role in this national debate.
By focusing on the stories and issues shaping our neighborhoods, City Cast Portland bridges gaps and connects the dots in Portland. Become a member to support local journalism that connects.
Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at [email protected], or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448.
Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.
Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.
Learn more about the sponsors of this December 9 episode:
- Salishan Coastal Lodge - Book your stay at salishan.com with code CITYCAST to save 20%
- Habitat for Humanity Portland Region ReStores
- Meals on Wheels People
- Profile Theatre
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Stay connected to City Cast Portland and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
The County’s Tick Warning, and PGE Wants Data Centers to Pay More. Plus, Mailbag!
We're talking about the uptick in ticks in Portland, according to Multnomah County health officials, and a proposed 29% electricity rate...
Portland's $3.6M Pothole, Cuts to County Homelessness Programs, and Travel Oregon Gets a Cheaper Boss
Today, we're talking about a record-breaking payout for damage caused by a Portland pothole, the deep cuts in Multnomah County’s $4 billi...
Why TriMet Is Slashing $64.5 Million, Free Summer Bus to Forest Park, Plus Albina’s 94-Acre Resurrection
We're talking about the free shuttle bus service to the Zoo and Forest Park coming this summer, and the major cuts coming to TriMet servi...
'Your City Could Be Better': How Las Vegas Saves More Water Than Any Other City — Presented By City Cast Portland
Portland recycles some of its water, but not as much as Las Vegas, where the water there stays in the city. How else could a desert city...
The Portland Fire Is on Fire, Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against a Local Spiritual Leader, and Do You Doughnut?
In honor of National Donut Day, we're looking into Portland's reputation as a doughnut town and sharing our favorite — and least favorite...
Patagonia vs. a Bend Drag Queen, AI in School, and Utility Rates Go Up
Today, we're talking about Patagonia's fight with a Bend drag queen, Portland Public Schools' new AI handbook, and our utility bills risi...
Oregon Strawberry Varieties You Need To Eat This Season
We’re taste testing our way through some of Oregon’s sweetest strawberries, and learning some new fun facts along the way. Like, did you...
How to Get Free Drinks at PDX, Longview Paper Mill Disaster’s Local Impact, Surprising Data on SNAP Recipients
We're talking about a new business at PDX airport that's offering a pretty cool perk to investors, the local impact of the Longview chemi...
Your Guide to June 2026 in Portland
Whether you’re enjoying a full week of eating strawberry shortcake or joining in on an LCD Soundsystem–themed group bike ride, June is of...
'Your City Could Be Better': How Chicago's Libraries Meet Community Needs — Presented By City Cast Portland
Where would Portland be without its libraries? Chicago is opening its 82nd public library branch in June, and loaning out books is just t...