The Pentagon has activated 200 National Guard troops to Portland in response to President Trump’s announcement ordering a deployment to the city. The move comes amid escalating tensions and protests in Portland, Oregon, with the administration citing the need to protect federal facilities from attacks by domestic groups.
Trump’s Title 10 Order Spurs Deployment
President Trump invoked Title 10 of the United States Code to authorize the deployment of National Guard and reserve troops to Portland. The president’s directive aims to “protect war-ravaged Portland” and federal immigration detention centers, citing threats from groups like Antifa and other domestic terrorists. This legal framework has been previously used to deploy troops in California and Washington, DC.
Following Trump’s public announcement on social media, Oregon’s Governor and Attorney General immediately rejected the deployment, emphasizing states’ rights and raising concerns over federal intervention. The Attorney General also filed a lawsuit seeking to block the federal government’s action, arguing it exceeds presidential authority.
Local Response and Legal Challenges
The deployment has sparked significant local opposition and public demonstrations. Oregon officials stress that the presence of federal troops could escalate tensions rather than restore order. Multiple rallies against the federal troop presence have taken place in Portland, reflecting deep divisions over the use of military forces in civil matters.
The Pentagon’s call-up of 200 National Guard troops represents a significant escalation in federal response to ongoing unrest. The situation remains fluid as legal challenges proceed and local officials continue to push back against the federal government’s intervention.