A federal judge on Thursday temporarily blocked the deployment of Oregon National Guard troops to Portland, responding to a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Oregon. U.S. District Judge Karin immergut issued a restraining order preventing Governor Tina Kotek from authorizing the Guard’s involvement in policing demonstrations,pending a further hearing.The legal challenge stems from Governor Kotek’s recent authorization of the Oregon National Guard to assist Portland Police Bureau in responding to anticipated unrest during and after the verdict in the trial of those accused in the 2020 murder of George Floyd. The ACLU argues the deployment violates a 1981 agreement limiting the Guard’s role in law enforcement, and raises concerns about potential First Amendment infringements. This case highlights the ongoing tension between state authority and civil liberties during periods of heightened social and political unrest,and its outcome could considerably impact how Oregon responds to future protests.
According to court documents, the ACLU filed suit Wednesday, alleging the governor’s order would “substantially interfere with the rights of Oregonians to peacefully assemble and express their views.” The lawsuit specifically targets the governor’s authorization allowing the Guard to provide support to Portland police, including crowd control and security at the Multnomah County Justice Center.
Judge Immergut’s order prevents the governor from deploying the National Guard for these purposes until a hearing can be held to further examine the legal arguments. A hearing is scheduled for June 17th.
Governor Kotek’s office stated the deployment was intended to ensure public safety and protect property, emphasizing that the Guard would only be used in a support role. “We are disappointed with this ruling and believe it is indeed critically important to have all resources available to ensure public safety,” said a spokesperson for the governor. “We will vigorously defend our authority to protect our communities.”
