Trump vows to deploy troops to Portland over ICE protests
President Trump has announced plans to send federal troops to Portland, Oregon, in response to ongoing protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. The move has drawn sharp criticism from the city's mayor, who condemned the federal intervention. Portland officials claim that videos circulating of anti-ICE riots are outdated footage from years ago.
On September 27, 2025, former President Donald Trump stated his intention to deploy troops to Portland to address what he described as escalating protests against ICE. According to NPR reporting, Trump announced the decision during a political discussion, emphasizing the need for federal intervention to restore order.
The protests stem from demonstrations against ICE enforcement actions in the city. Fox News reported that Trump vowed to use 'full force' in Portland as the anti-ICE demonstrations continued, highlighting his administration's commitment to supporting federal law enforcement amid local unrest.
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler responded forcefully to the announcement. In a statement covered by Fox News, Wheeler condemned the proposed federal intervention, arguing that it would escalate tensions rather than resolve them. He specifically addressed viral videos purporting to show recent riots, claiming they were actually from protests several years prior. 'These videos are not reflective of the current situation in Portland,' Wheeler said, urging the public to rely on verified information.
NPR's coverage on September 28 provided additional context, noting that Trump's pledge came amid broader political discussions, though the focus remained on the Portland deployment. The mayor's office has maintained that local law enforcement is handling the protests adequately without federal troops.
This development echoes past federal responses to unrest in Portland, but officials have not specified a timeline for any troop deployment. The announcement has heightened concerns about federal-local relations in the city, known for its history of activism.