Homeland Security Sec. Noem Issues Ultimatum to Portland Mayor, Threatens Federal Officer Surge
Homeland Security Sec. Noem Issues Ultimatum to Portland Mayor, Threatens Federal Officer Surge
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem delivered a stark warning to Portland Mayor Keith Wilson yesterday, October 7, 2025, threatening to deploy a significantly larger federal presence to the city if local security measures for federal officers are not adequately addressed. Noem’s ultimatum came after a high-profile visit to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Portland, which has been the epicenter of nightly protests for months.
Secretary Noem’s visit on Tuesday included meetings with key local law enforcement officials, including Portland Police Chief Bob Day, Oregon State Police Superintendent Casey Codding, and Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell. The discussions centered on the volatile environment surrounding the ICE facility and the ongoing dispute between the Trump administration and Oregon officials regarding the deployment of federal troops.
While Chief Day acknowledged the need for improved communication and a change in the protest environment, he reiterated his department’s capacity to manage local crime and did not discuss National Guard deployments, which are currently subject to ongoing litigation. Governor Tina Kotek, who met Noem upon her arrival, emphasized her confidence in local law enforcement and stressed Oregon’s opposition to military intervention or harmful federal law enforcement tactics in its communities. Multnomah County Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O’Donnell also stated her department welcomes federal partnerships only when they align with local priorities and respect Oregon law.
The Secretary’s visit underscores the escalating tensions between federal authorities and Oregon officials. A U.S. district judge recently temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deploying the National Guard to Portland, ruling that the city’s conditions did not justify a federal takeover. Despite this, Secretary Noem’s direct warning to Mayor Wilson signals a potential federal escalation if her demands for enhanced security around the ICE facility are not met.
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