Dont Take the Bait. Portland leaders urge calm in face of federal buildup at ICE facility.

Portland leaders, including Mayor Keith Wilson, urged residents to stay calm and avoid violence in response to the increased federal presence in the city. At a press conference, Wilson criticized the federal government's approach, stating, "We did not ask for them to come," and suggested that federal resources should support community-focused projects instead of military-style interventions. U. S. Senator Jeff Merkley encouraged residents to engage in peaceful protests from a distance, warning against falling into the federal government's trap for violent confrontation.

City Council President Elana Pirtle-Guiney emphasized the need for unity and peaceful action, stating that the community must rise together without division. Congresswoman Maxine Dexter reinforced the idea that compassion is stronger than division, urging residents to protect their community from federal overreach. She cautioned against giving federal agents any reason to escalate tensions. This collective message from local leaders aims to foster a sense of resilience and solidarity among Portland residents during a tumultuous time. The leaders called for clear expressions of community autonomy against what they perceive as authoritarian tactics from the federal government.