Oregon Democrats have expressed their strong opposition following a federal appeals court’s decision that supports President Donald Trump’s initiative to deploy National Guard troops to Portland. The ruling, delivered by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, lifted a previous restraining order that had barred the deployment of these troops.
Local Leaders’ Reactions to Court Ruling
State leaders are united in their belief that federal troops are not necessary in Portland. Senator Jeff Merkley voiced his disapproval on Threads, stating, “Troops are not wanted or needed in Portland. The fight continues to protect our community.”
- Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield condemned the ruling, arguing it grants the president excessive power to deploy National Guard without justification.
- Portland Mayor Keith Wilson highlighted the need for cooperation with local governance and public-safety solutions that respect civil rights.
- U.S. Senator Ron Wyden called the decision a “short-term disappointment” and emphasized the need for accountability regarding federal troop deployments.
Concerns About the National Guard Deployment
Rayfield urged residents to remain peaceful and trust the judicial process, stressing the importance of safety for National Guard members, who are part of the community. “We are on a dangerous path in America,” Rayfield emphasized.
Wilson reiterated that National Guard personnel are “our neighbors” and deserve better treatment than being deployed unnecessarily. He reaffirmed Portland’s commitment to democracy and peaceful protest, calling on federal authorities to respect local governance.
Protests Characterized as Peaceful
U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas, a Democrat from Tigard, shared her disappointment in the appeals court ruling. She argued that the largely peaceful protests, exemplified by inflatable costumes used by demonstrators, do not warrant military intervention. “Inflatable frogs and unicorns can’t pass the laugh test,” she remarked.
Additionally, U.S. Representative Maxine Dexter cautioned residents against Trump’s actions, labeling them an attempt to incite violence and chaos. “We will remain united,” Dexter stated, emphasizing the need for courage in the face of such challenges.
The Call to Vote
Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read encouraged citizens to channel their frustration positively by participating in elections. “The most powerful thing we can do in this moment is to vote,” said Read in a recent Facebook video.
As the legal battles continue, Oregon’s leaders are committed to resisting what they perceive as an overreach of federal power while advocating for the rights of their citizens to protest peacefully.
