Trump Deploys Troops to Portland, Threatens "Full Force" Crackdown on American Protesters

Trump Directs Troops to Portland, Vows "Full Force" Against Americans In a move sparking widespread criticism, President Donald Trump on Saturday directed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to Portland, Oregon, escalating his use of military deployments in US cities. Trump's decision, announced through his Truth Social platform, also authorized the use of "full force" if necessary. The deployment comes as tensions simmer in Portland, where protests have been ongoing at an ICE facility in South Portland. Mayor Keith Wilson expressed concern about the federal presence, stating, "They are here without precedent or purpose." The city's leading politicians accused Trump of attempting to provoke violence and unrest in the famously liberal town. "We did not ask for them to come," Wilson said at a news conference on Friday. "Portland is a peaceful, vibrant city with no need for federal agents on our streets." The move marks the latest development in Trump's use of military deployments in US cities. He has already sent National Guard troops to Los Angeles, Washington, DC, and Memphis. Critics argue that Trump's actions are an overreach of executive power and a threat to civil liberties. "This is a reckless and unconstitutional attempt to impose martial law on American cities," said Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR). "Portland is a peaceful city with no need for federal agents on our streets." The deployment has raised concerns about the potential for clashes between protesters and federal agents, as well as the impact on local businesses and residents. Background and Context The protests in Portland have been ongoing since August, with demonstrators calling for an end to ICE's presence in the city. The federal government has responded by deploying federal agents, including those from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the US Marshals Service. Trump's decision to deploy troops to Portland marks a significant escalation of his use of military deployments in US cities. His administration has argued that the deployments are necessary to protect federal property and personnel. Additional Perspectives The deployment has sparked concerns about the potential for human rights abuses, as well as the impact on local law enforcement agencies. "We're worried about the safety of our officers and the community," said Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell. "We don't need federal agents here." The move has also raised questions about the role of the military in domestic law enforcement. "This is a slippery slope," said Rep. Mark Pocan (D-WI). "If we allow the president to deploy troops in US cities, where does it end?" Current Status and Next Developments As of Saturday evening, federal agents had begun arriving in Portland, with reports of clashes between protesters and law enforcement. The situation remains fluid, with both sides preparing for potential confrontations. The deployment is expected to continue in the coming days, with Trump's administration arguing that it is necessary to maintain order and protect federal property. Critics, however, argue that the move is a threat to civil liberties and an overreach of executive power. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the deployment of troops to Portland marks a significant escalation of tensions in US cities, with far-reaching implications for society and democracy. *Reporting by Motherjones.*