In the aftermath of President Donald Trump’s announcement to dispatch National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon, a wave of opposition has emerged from lawmakers, business figures, and locals. Trump took to social media over the weekend, stating he had instructed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to safeguard Portland, which he described as “war ravaged,” along with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities allegedly besieged by Antifa and other “domestic terrorists.”
Since June, demonstrations have occurred outside an ICE facility in south Portland in response to immigrant arrests carried out nationwide. While most protests in Portland have been peaceful, a few dozen arrests have been made. Subsequently, the State of Oregon and the City of Portland have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding the deployment of Oregon National Guard troops, with a hearing for a temporary restraining order scheduled for Friday.
On Monday, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, joined by 17 neighboring communities, publicly criticized the president’s decision, with Mayor Wilson emphasizing that they do not require any troops. The Portland Metro Chamber, representing regional businesses, issued an open letter opposing the deployment, signed by numerous officials and organizations, citing concerns about the potential economic repercussions.
Andrew Hoan, the Chamber’s president, expressed worries about a potential 30% decline in business activities, drawing parallels to the impact seen in Washington D.C. during a National Guard deployment. Hoan highlighted the adverse effects of such language on the city’s economy and reputation, emphasizing the necessity to counteract negative perceptions and emphasize the progress being made in Portland.
Local residents in Portland hold varying opinions on the National Guard’s impending arrival. Jonathan Berger, a long-term resident, expressed dismay over the deployment, viewing it as unnecessary provocation. Marilyn Clint, a 70-year Portland resident, found the deployment surreal and questioned its necessity for ensuring safety. In contrast, Gloria Warner, residing near the ICE facility, welcomed the military presence, hoping for a strong response to disruptive protests.
Portland has a history of activism and protests, particularly demonstrated following the death of George Floyd in 2020. Chris Shortell, a political science professor at Portland State University, highlighted the city’s liberal ethos and legacy of civic engagement. He anticipates heightened levels of protest following the National Guard deployment, contingent on how troops are utilized in the city.