Federal agents deployed tear gas and pepper balls against protesters gathered outside the Portland, oregon, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility late Saturday, escalating tensions that have simmered for weeks. The actions came after demonstrators attempted to breach security barriers and damaged the building, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
The escalating confrontation underscores the ongoing debate over federal intervention in local protests and the treatment of migrants and asylum seekers. Portland has been a focal point of demonstrations since the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis sparked nationwide unrest, and the presence of federal agents has further inflamed tensions. The ICE facility has been a frequent target of protests due to its role in immigration enforcement.
Earlier Saturday, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek condemned the use of force by federal agents, stating it was “unacceptable” and calling for a full examination. “The federal government’s actions tonight are a hazardous escalation and an affront to Oregonians’ rights,” Kotek said in a statement.
The unrest in Portland unfolded as South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s attempt to air a television advertisement in Oregon was rejected by local stations. The ad, intended to criticize Portland’s handling of protests and promote South Dakota as a safer alternative, was deemed unsuitable by several networks due to its political nature and potential to incite further unrest. Noem subsequently posted the ad on social media.
The “emergency” World Naked Bike Ride also took place in Portland on Saturday, kicking off at Grant Park around 3 p.m., despite an originally announced start time of 2:30 p.m. Organizers planned a “die-in” on the burnside Bridge during the ride, and the full route was kept undisclosed in advance.
