In a recent discussion with the president after her visit t Portland, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed gratitude for the federal government’s efforts to enhance security measures across the country.
“Thank you for your leadership and for deploying all of government to help us keep our country safe,” Noem said.
She claimed there were increased threats faced by law enforcement officers and mentioned recent incidents, such as the shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas, as reasons for bolstering security.
“We’re hardening all of our buildings and making sure that we have more security measures,” she said.
Noem also revealed plans to expand federal operations in Portland and Chicago, stating, “We’re purchasing more buildings in Chicago to operate out of… we’re doubling down and we’re going to be in more parts of Chicago.”
She criticized local leaders in Portland, describing them as “lying and disingenuous,” and warned of increased federal presence if demands for safety were not met.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bond said “my lawyers are in court right now… to keep them safe to bring in the guard,” referring to the active lawsuit between the federal government and Oregon, in which a decision is expected today.
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Trump expressed confusion over local resistance to federal assistance, suggesting political motivations. “I don’t understand the politics of it,” he said, questioning why local leaders would oppose measures to ensure safety.
Noem recounted a conversation with Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, who said the city was safe and no in need of troop deployment. “I asked the mayor that himself. He said that Portland was perfectly safe,” she said, pointing out the precautions taken during her visit.
Trump described the situation as “sick” and attributed the unrest to anarchists. “Those are people that want to overthrow government,” he said, commending efforts to trace financial networks supporting the unrest.
This comes as a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is deliberating on President Trump’s authority to deploy 200 Oregon National Guard troops in Portland.
The deployment was intended to address protests outside an ICE building.
Justice Department attorney Eric McArthur argued that regular forces were insufficient to protect federal property.
Meanwhile, Oregon’s attorney, Stacy Chaffin, contended that the protests involved only isolated incidents of crime or violence, which were managed by civilian law enforcement.
Judge Ryan Nelson acknowledged the Founders’ concerns about domestic military use but questioned the judiciary’s role in evaluating the president’s decisions on troop deployment. The judges aim to issue a ruling promptly.
“By calling forth troops when there is no invasion to repel, no rebellion to suppress, and when state and local law enforcement are fully able to execute the law,” the filing says, “the President flouts the vision of our Founders, undermines the rule of law, and sets a chilling precedent that puts the constitutional rights of all Americans at risk.”