Portland, Oregon’s Democratic mayor, Keith Wilson, has stated there is no need for federal forces after President Donald Trump authorized troop deployment to the city and immigration facilities nationwide. The announcement, made via Trump’s Truth Social platform, comes amid claims of needing to protect Portland from “domestic terrorists” and follows a deadly shooting at an ICE facility in Texas, for which Trump attributed blame to the “radical left” without evidence.

Local leaders, including Wilson and US Senator Ron Wyden, condemned the president’s decision, arguing it contradicts their wishes. Wilson emphasized that there would be no lawlessness in Portland unless provoked, asserting that the necessary number of troops is “zero.” He expressed concern that Trump’s actions may mirror a similar deployment in 2020 during protests over George Floyd’s death, suggesting a motive to incite conflict.

While Trump had authorized the use of “full force” if necessary, it remains unclear whether just the National Guard or additional military branches would be sent. Notably, violent crime in Portland has decreased by 17% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, as reported by the Major Cities Chiefs Association, contradicting claims of escalating violence.



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