Trump and Kotek Clash Over National Guard Deployment in Portland
A social media dispute has erupted between former President Donald Trump and Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek over the potential deployment of the National Guard to Portland. The disagreement stems from differing views on how to handle protests near the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility.
Trump's Social Media Criticism
Trump took to Truth Social to criticize Kotek's handling of the situation in Portland, claiming the city is a "NEVER-ENDING DISASTER." He asserted that Portland is "run like a Third World Country" and that federal intervention is necessary to restore "LAW AND ORDER." He stated that, "We're only going in because, as American Patriots, WE HAVE NO CHOICE. LAW AND ORDER MUST PREVAIL IN OUR CITIES, AND EVERYWHERE ELSE!"
Conflicting Views on Portland Protests
The dispute intensified after text messages between Trump and Kotek were made public, revealing confusion about the situation outside the ICE facility. Trump announced his intention to invoke Title 10, allowing him to order the deployment of the Oregon National Guard, which Kotek claimed was mobilized without her consent.
"I believe this is unlawful and unwarranted. You broke your promise to speak with me before taking further action against Portland. I will be in touch later." - Gov. Kotek in a text message to President Trump
Kotek's Stance on Federal Intervention
During a press conference, Kotek emphasized that the Portland Police Bureau is managing the protests while adhering to sanctuary city laws. She stated that officers will not assist federal immigration enforcement efforts. She also maintained that the situation "is not an insurrection" and does not warrant military intervention. She conveyed that, "We are maintaining the ability for people to exercise their free speech rights, but also protecting the folks on the ground there."
Trump's Justification for National Guard Deployment
Trump argued that protests outside the ICE facility have "continue[d] to deteriorate into lawless mayhem." He accused "ANTIFA and the Radical Left Anarchists" of attacking federal law enforcement officers. Trump wrote, "Our GREAT Federal Law Enforcement Officers have not been able to enforce the Laws in Oregon. ANTIFA and the Radical Left Anarchists have been viciously attacking our Federal Law Enforcement Officers, men and women who are simply doing their job, protecting Federal Property, and enforcing Federal Immigration Laws and the Rule of Law." He defended the deployment of the National Guard as necessary to restore order.
Timeline and Uncertainty
The Oregon Military Department initially indicated that troops could be deployed as early as Thursday, but officials are now suggesting that this timeline may be delayed. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected.
