Councilor Loretta Smith Responds to Federal Troop Deployment in Portland

Councilor Loretta Smith strongly condemned the deployment of federal troops in Portland, asserting that the city is not a battlefield. She emphasized trust in local law enforcement and community members to ensure safety, declaring that they understand the unique challenges of their neighborhoods. Smith described the federal intervention as a gross overreach that threatens Oregon's autonomy and local governance. She cautioned that this action sets a dangerous precedent for deploying federal agents without local consent. In her statement, Smith vowed to peacefully oppose the military presence and protect community freedoms.

She remains dedicated to collaborating with local leaders and organizations to support Portlanders. The situation reflects ongoing tensions regarding federal authority and local rights. Smith’s response underscores the need for local voices in governance.