PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) — Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is expected to visit Portland this week, city officials confirmed Monday morning. The visit comes as tensions rise between federal and state officials following a court order blocking President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to Oregon.
Federal Court Blocks National Guard Deployment
Late Sunday night, U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut issued a temporary restraining order preventing the Trump administration from sending any National Guard units to Oregon, following a fast-moving legal dispute that began when the president attempted to mobilize California troops for Portland.
The ruling came after both Oregon and California jointly sought emergency relief, arguing that the federal government’s actions exceeded presidential authority. The decision temporarily halts all National Guard deployments to the state pending review by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, where Trump administration lawyers have already filed an appeal.
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During a Monday press conference, President Trump expressed frustration over the ruling and hinted he may invoke the Insurrection Act, saying he “wouldn’t rule out” its use if protests continue to escalate in U.S. cities.
City Confirms Kristi Noem’s Visit
At 8:05 a.m. Monday, the City of Portland confirmed that DHS Secretary Noem will visit the Portland area. In an official statement, city officials said they were notified of her trip but had not been given full details of her agenda.
“In the interest of public safety, Portland Police will provide the same routine support they would for any visiting dignitary,” the statement read. “Consistent with Portland’s sanctuary city status, our local police will not support any federal immigration enforcement activities.”
The city urged residents to remain calm, emphasizing that recent federal court decisions affirm Portland’s right to manage local public safety without military involvement.
Political Reactions
At 8:30 a.m., Oregon Senator Ron Wyden released a statement sharply criticizing Noem’s visit, accusing her of inflaming tensions rather than easing them.
“Kristi Noem is cosplaying as a public official,” Wyden said. “She’s been sent by Trump to incite violence. The best response to her playacting as cop? Ignore her and keep supporting our community.”
Meanwhile, conservative commentator Benny Johnson reported that Noem’s visit is scheduled for Tuesday, though DHS has not yet provided official confirmation.
Ongoing Protests and Arrests
Portland Police said their Incident Command Team was once again stationed near the city’s ICE facility Monday night, where protests have continued for several days. Officers arrested 31-year-old Terrell Bouie of Tennessee, accused of throwing an unknown liquid on another person. He was booked on one count of harassment.
What Comes Next
As legal battles over federal involvement in Portland continue, Noem’s visit is expected to draw both supporters and protesters. City officials say preparations are underway to ensure safety during her stay, with local police focusing on maintaining order and preventing confrontation.
The situation remains fluid as the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals weighs whether to uphold Judge Immergut’s restraining order, a decision that could determine the extent of federal power in Oregon’s ongoing protest response.
