Judge Boots Black Journalist, Admits Race Was Reason?
An Oregon administrative hearing exploded into a constitutional fight when OAH Judge Jennifer H. Rackstraw booted Black investigative reporter Rick LaRivière. According to an unofficial transcript, Rackstraw answered “Yes” when asked if she was excluding him for being Black and a journalist, then claimed Oregon law required secrecy. LaRivière refused to leave. He demanded a written order to “file an emergency petition with the Federal District Court.” The state moved to delay. Rackstraw shut it down and reset it in person—promising LaRivière “will not be allowed in.” DOJ counsel Rachel E. Bertoni stayed silent on the record as the Star Chamber vibe spread.