Federal Authorization and State Pushback
The Trump administration has authorized 200 members of the Oregon National Guard for federal duty in Portland under a 60-day order, according to a Department of Defense memo sent to Governor Tina Kotek on Sunday. The action, taken under Title 10 authority, places the Guard under federal command rather than state control.
Within hours, Oregon’s top officials — including the governor, Attorney General Dan Rayfield, and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson — announced a lawsuit seeking to block the deployment. They also filed for a temporary restraining order, arguing the move violates federal law and improperly uses the military for domestic law enforcement.
Legal Challenge
In their filing, state attorneys said the decision to federalize the Guard amounted to an overreach. They argued it breached the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts military involvement in civilian policing.
A recent case in California has already raised concerns about federal use of state National Guard units. Earlier this month, a federal judge there ruled a similar call-up unlawful, warning against the creation of a “national police force with the President as its chief.”
Background on Portland Tensions
President Trump has repeatedly highlighted Portland in recent weeks, citing demonstrations outside the city’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility. He described the city on social media as “under siege” by extremists, calling for “full force” if necessary.
Local officials have disputed that characterization, noting that recent gatherings have been relatively small compared to unrest seen in 2020. While occasional clashes between demonstrators and federal officers have occurred, officials emphasized that Portland is not experiencing widespread violence.
Political Response
Governor Kotek said she communicated directly with the president before the order was finalized. She warned the deployment could make conditions less safe and argued there was no public safety emergency requiring military intervention.
Mayor Wilson voiced disappointment as well, urging residents to remain peaceful while asserting that the city is “on the rise” rather than in decline.
Not all officials opposed the action. U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez DeRemer welcomed the decision, describing Portland as plagued by crime.
What Comes Next
The deployment order covers 60 days, though its future now hinges on the outcome of Oregon’s legal challenge. A federal judge will determine whether the Guard can be used in Portland under federal authority.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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