Donald Trump to Send Troops to Portland with Full Force

Former President Donald Trump announced he is sending troops to Portland. He made the statement on his Truth Social platform on Saturday. Trump said the action targets “domestic terrorists” and is needed to protect federal facilities.

Oregon’s Democratic Governor, Tina Kotek, immediately condemned the decision. She stated the city is peaceful and managing its own public safety. This move expands Trump’s pattern of deploying federal forces to U.S. cities against the wishes of local authorities.

Governor and Mayor Vow to Resist Military Intervention

Governor Kotek held a press conference to respond. She said she told Trump and Homeland Security officials that troops are not needed. According to Reuters, she argued there is no insurrection or national security threat in Portland.

Portland’s mayor echoed the governor’s stance. He called the city a peaceful American community, not a military target. Local leaders urged residents to remain calm and not respond to the president’s provocation.

A City at Peace Questions the “War Ravaged” Label

On the ground, residents expressed confusion and anger. On a calm, sunny day, people were seen jogging and strolling along the river. They questioned the “war ravaged” description used by the former president.

One longtime resident called the statement “ridiculous.” He pointed to the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Official crime data supports the local view, showing a decrease in violent crime this year.

Portland’s downtown has seen a strong recovery since the pandemic. Pedestrian traffic has increased and homeless encampments have been reduced. City officials have worked to highlight this progress.

The decision to deploy federal troops to Portland sets up a major legal and political clash over state versus federal power, with the city’s peaceful reality contradicting the justification for military force.

Thought you’d like to know-

Is it legal for a president to send troops to a U.S. city?

The legal authority is debated. The Posse Comitatus Act generally limits using the military for domestic law enforcement. However, presidents have invoked the Insurrection Act in the past, which provides exceptions.

How have other cities responded to similar threats?

Chicago was previously threatened but saw no deployment. Memphis is expecting a small contingent of around 150 troops. California successfully challenged a similar deployment in court.

What is the current situation in Portland?

Recent reports from the Associated Press indicate the city is largely calm. Violent crime has decreased, and downtown activity has rebounded significantly since the 2020 protests.

Why is Portland considered a sanctuary city?

Portland limits its cooperation with federal immigration enforcement agencies like ICE. This policy is at the center of the current political dispute and the former president’s focus on the city’s ICE facility.

What was the federal response to Portland protests in 2020?

The Trump administration sent hundreds of federal agents to the city in 2020. Their stated goal was to protect federal property, including a courthouse, during widespread racial justice demonstrations.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters