Trump Deploys National Guard to Portland Amid Claims of Domestic Terrorism

Trump Deploys National Guard to Portland Amid "Domestic Terrorist" Claims US President Donald Trump expanded his deployment of National Guard troops to cities across the country on Saturday, sending them to Portland, Oregon, in an effort to address what he described as a "war-ravaged" city under siege from Antifa. According to a White House statement, Trump authorized the full force of the National Guard if necessary to combat crime and restore order in Portland. The move comes after last week's designation of Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, a decision that has been met with criticism from civil liberties groups and some lawmakers. Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler, a Democrat, expressed concern about the deployment, stating, "We don't need the National Guard here. We have our own police department and we're capable of handling our own security needs." Wheeler added that he had spoken to Trump earlier in the week and urged him not to deploy troops to the city. The deployment marks the latest escalation in a long-standing feud between Trump and Portland, which has been a hub for progressive politics and activism. The city's mayor and police chief have repeatedly pushed back against Trump's claims of a "war zone" and accused him of using the National Guard as a political tool. Trump's decision to deploy troops to Portland is part of a broader effort to address what he sees as rising crime rates in cities across the country. He has already deployed National Guard troops to Washington D.C., Memphis, and Los Angeles, all of which have Democratic mayors. Critics argue that Trump's actions are an overreach of executive power and an attempt to exert control over cities with progressive governments. "This is a classic case of using the military as a tool for domestic politics," said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). "It's a threat to democracy and a clear abuse of power." The deployment comes as Portland prepares for a major protest against police brutality, which is expected to draw thousands of people to the city. Background: Portland has been at the forefront of progressive activism in recent years, with frequent protests and demonstrations against police brutality, immigration policy, and other issues. Trump's designation of Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization has been met with widespread criticism from civil liberties groups and some lawmakers, who argue that it is an attempt to silence dissenting voices. Additional Perspectives: Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell stated, "We appreciate the support of our federal partners, but we don't need the National Guard here. We have a robust police department that is capable of handling our own security needs." Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, said, "This deployment is a clear abuse of power and an attempt to exert control over cities with progressive governments. It's a threat to democracy and must be stopped." Current Status: The National Guard troops are expected to arrive in Portland on Sunday, with a presence expected to last for several weeks. The city's mayor and police chief have vowed to work with the federal authorities but have expressed concerns about the deployment. Next developments: A hearing is scheduled for next week in Congress to discuss Trump's use of executive power and the deployment of National Guard troops. Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler has announced plans to meet with Trump on Monday to discuss the deployment and express his concerns. *Reporting by Dw.*