Oregon Sues to Block Federal Deployment of National Guard to Portland

Oregon officials have initiated legal action to prevent the federal deployment of 200 National Guard troops to Portland, as ordered by President Donald Trump. On Sunday, Attorney General Dan Rayfield filed a preliminary injunction against the federalization of the state's National Guard under Title 10, which would place them under federal control for 60 days to protect federal property amid ongoing protests.

Governor Tina Kotek expressed strong opposition to the federal intervention, stating, "There is no insurrection. There is no threat to national security. And there is no need for military troops." She emphasized that Portland is not "war-ravaged" and that local authorities are capable of managing public safety without federal assistance.

The lawsuit contends that the President lacks authority under 10 U.S.C. §12406 to federalize the Guard in this context, as there is no invasion, rebellion, or obstruction of federal laws that would justify such action. It also argues that the order violates the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits the military from engaging in civilian law enforcement, and infringes on the 10th Amendment by undermining state authority.

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson and other local leaders have also opposed the deployment, stating that the city did not request National Guard support and that the situation does not warrant military intervention. The Pentagon has declined to comment on the matter, citing ongoing litigation.

The legal challenge follows similar actions in other states, such as California, where federal troop deployments have been contested in court. Oregon officials are seeking immediate relief to halt the federalization of the state's National Guard and maintain local control over law enforcement and public safety.