Portland Mayor Fights Federal Authority as National Guard Heads In

UPDATE: The U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has just granted the Trump administration the power to deploy the National Guard to Portland, igniting fierce opposition from local leaders. Mayor Keith Wilson has vowed to challenge this decision, asserting that it undermines the city’s core values of democracy and peaceful protest.

In a powerful statement, Wilson declared, “Portland stands for democracy, dignity, and the right to peacefully protest,” and plans to seek a full review from the Ninth Circuit, arguing this move represents unacceptable federal overreach. He cautioned, “We will not stand by while federal agencies sidestep local authority,” underscoring the urgency of this developing situation.

The deployment order is pending approval from U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut, who must lift a temporary restraining order currently blocking the National Guard’s arrival in the city. This legal battle is critical, with Portland officials collaborating with the Oregon Department of Justice to respond effectively to the federal directive.

Wilson expressed deep concern for the National Guard members, stating, “Our National Guard members are our neighbors, coworkers, and loved ones, and they deserve better than this unnecessary, unwanted deployment.” This emphasizes the emotional toll on the community as they prepare for potential unrest amid heightened tensions.

The Oregon National Guard, operating under Northern Command and the authority of the U.S. Secretary of War, is set to arrive in Portland shortly, although specific details regarding their mission remain undisclosed. The city braces for their deployment as legal proceedings may temporarily delay the federal intervention.

Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds, with the community and officials closely monitoring the implications of this significant federal action. The stakes are high, and the potential impact on local governance and civil rights is profound.