WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced on Saturday his decision to send troops to Portland, Oregon, stating he would authorize 'Full Force, if necessary' to handle what he refers to as 'domestic terrorists.' This decision expands his controversial military presence in American cities.
In a social media update, Trump directed the Department of Defense to 'provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland.' His assertion follows reports of violent protests around U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities, which the President claims are 'under siege' from groups like Antifa.
Trump escalated his position after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, attributing increasing political violence to the 'radical left.' Over the summer, he had already deployed troops, including the National Guard and active-duty Marines, to other cities such as Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.
Portland has seen frequent clashes at the ICE facility, leading to injuries among federal agents and charges against demonstrators. Recent protests saw extreme actions, including the installation of a guillotine by activists, which the Department of Homeland Security condemned as 'unhinged behavior.'
'We’re going to get out there and we’re going to do a pretty big number on those people in Portland,' Trump commented, portraying protesters as 'professional agitators and anarchists.' Earlier this month, he described living conditions in Portland as 'like living in hell' and indicated that he might extend federal troops to other cities facing similar unrest.
Portland's Mayor, Keith Wilson, responded to Trump's threats stating, 'Like other mayors across the country, I have not asked for -– and do not need -– federal intervention.' He noted that Portland authorities respect freedom of expression while addressing violence and property damage.
In Tennessee, additional National Guard troops are also expected to arrive as part of efforts to combat local crime issues, with Governor Bill Lee affirming their deployment.
