President Trump announced on Truth Social that he has ordered Pete Hegseth, the secretary of war, to “provide all necessary troops” to Portland, Oregon, citing demands from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The president stated the deployment aims to protect “war ravaged Portland” and ICE facilities allegedly under siege by Antifa and other domestic terrorists. He also authorized the use of “Full Force if necessary,” according to his post.
A White House spokesperson did not immediately clarify which military branch would be involved in the potential deployment. Over recent days, Trump has repeatedly criticized Portland, calling it a hub of “anarchy” during remarks in the Oval Office. He claimed “people die out there” and questioned how residents endure the city’s conditions. On Friday, he described Portland as “out of control,” vowing to address the situation.
Trump recently signed an executive order classifying Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, despite legal challenges to the move. The White House framed the designation as targeting an “anarchist enterprise” seeking to overthrow U.S. institutions. Critics argue the order lacks legal basis, but Trump’s allies praised it as evidence of his resolve against leftist groups.
Meanwhile, authorities in Dallas reported a shooting at an ICE facility last week, where a gunman killed one detainee and injured others. The Department of Homeland Security announced plans to enhance security at ICE facilities nationwide following the attack.