Oregon Governor Tina Kotek (D) threatened to investigate and prosecute federal agents who enforce United States immigration laws in the state of Oregon.
In a video on Instagram, Kotek accused the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of taking “violent action” and “instilling fear in the name of immigration enforcement.” Kotek also said the state would “investigate misconduct” and hold federal officials accountable.
“Like you, I believe in the rule of law and keeping our community safe,” Kotek said. “We also believe in being a welcoming place where our immigrant and refugee community helps our state thrive. The ongoing predatory actions of the federal Department of Homeland Security are unacceptable – going after Oregonians, and instilling fear in the name of ‘immigration enforcement.'”
Kotek continued to explain that using “excessive force, reckless tactics” and endangering bystanders and law enforcement is “not how public safety works.”
“Oregon is closely monitoring all ICE activities,” Kotek said. “We will investigate misconduct, and if a federal official breaks Oregon law, they will be held accountable just like anyone else. I will not tolerate reckless or unconstitutional behavior in our state.”
During an interview with CBS News in October, Kotek accused federal agents of escalating conditions with protesters in Portland, and called on them to “stand down and focus on deescalating the situation.”
,[T]”Their demonstrations are being managed by local law enforcement, as they should be,” Kotek said at the time. “People have the right to protest legally, but if they cross the line, they’re being held accountable,” Kotek said at the time. If criminal activity occurs, they are being held accountable. This is what free speech looks like, and I believe this is where the federal government can continue to work.
