Peaceful “No Kings” Rally Turns Tense Near ICE Facility
What began as a largely peaceful demonstration in Portland took a tense turn on Saturday when tear gas was deployed outside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building on the South Waterfront. The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) confirmed that three individuals were arrested as part of the protest activity that unfolded during the nationwide “No Kings” rally.
Tens of thousands of demonstrators marched across more than 50 Oregon cities and towns, uniting under the banner of “No Kings” to protest what they describe as unchecked executive power and the erosion of democratic norms. While the majority of events remained peaceful, a confrontation near the ICE facility stood out as an exception.
Three Portland Residents Arrested
According to PPB officials, three Portland residents were taken into custody outside the ICE facility. The arrested individuals were identified as:
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Mark A. Lee, 27, charged with Assault in the Fourth Degree and Harassment.
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Michelle P. Backes, 46, charged with Assault in the Fourth Degree.
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Stacey A. Prichard, charged with Harassment and Bias Crime in the Second Degree.
All three were booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center. Police noted that the arrests followed escalating tensions between demonstrators and federal agents stationed at the facility.
Despite the use of tear gas, officers emphasized that the majority of participants in the “No Kings” march remained peaceful and complied with directions from law enforcement. No serious injuries were reported.
Background: Political Tensions and Federal Involvement
This weekend’s demonstration was part of a broader movement opposing what activists describe as authoritarian overreach under President Donald Trump’s administration. Earlier this month, protests in Portland intensified after Trump invoked Title 10, which federalized and deployed the Oregon National Guard to assist in law enforcement operations.
However, a federal court later ruled that while the Oregon National Guard would remain federalized, Trump’s authority to deploy additional troops to Portland was temporarily blocked. The court’s decision did little to ease tensions on the ground, where federal agents—especially those under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—have maintained a visible and controversial presence.
Lawmakers Condemn Federal Response
Several members of Oregon’s congressional delegation—including Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, and Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Janelle Bynum, and Maxine Dexter—issued a letter earlier this month to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. The lawmakers criticized what they described as the “excessive use of force” by DHS agents, claiming it has escalated violence and eroded public trust.
The letter urged Noem to withdraw federal agents from Portland, stating:
“The excessive use of force by DHS agents has escalated tensions on the ground, eroded the trust between our community and law enforcement, and put our constituents in harm’s way.”
Secretary Noem, however, responded sharply, accusing Oregon officials of “lying” and vowing to increase federal enforcement presence in the city.
Tear Gas and Calls for Accountability
Despite repeated concerns from city officials and health experts, federal agents continue to use tear gas and pepper balls for crowd control. Critics argue that these chemical agents are indiscriminate and pose serious health risks, particularly to children, bystanders, and those with respiratory conditions.
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson reiterated his calls for DHS to adopt “higher operational and legal standards” in its handling of protests. In a statement, Wilson emphasized the need for “a thoughtful, long-term approach” to both the future of the ICE facility and the safety of surrounding communities.
He also urged the federal government to ensure that agents are properly identified and equipped with body-worn cameras, to promote transparency and accountability during operations.
Ongoing Debate Over Protests and Policing
The clash near the ICE facility highlights ongoing debates in Portland about how to balance public safety with the right to protest. While many activists view the “No Kings” rally as an expression of democratic dissent, law enforcement officials continue to grapple with maintaining order amid the city’s history of civil unrest.
As investigations continue into Saturday’s events, Portland officials reaffirm that the city supports peaceful protest but will not tolerate violence or property destruction.
For now, the three arrested protesters remain in custody as the community awaits further details on potential charges and court proceedings.
