Oregon Governor Tina Kotek (D) has threatened to investigate and prosecute federal agents who enforce US immigration laws in the state of Oregon.
In an Instagram video, Kotek accused the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of taking “violent actions” and “stoking fear in the name of immigration enforcement.” Kotek also said the state would “investigate misconduct” and hold federal agents accountable.
“I believe, like you, in the rule of law and the safety of our community,” Kotek said. “We also believe in being a welcoming place, where our immigrant and refugee community helps our state thrive. The federal Department of Homeland Security’s ongoing violent actions are unacceptable – preying on Oregonians and stoking fear in the name of ‘immigration enforcement’.”
Kotek went on to explain that using “excessive force and reckless tactics” and endangering bystanders and law enforcement was “not how public safety works.”
“Oregon is closely monitoring all ICE actions,” Kotek added. “We will investigate any misconduct, and if a federal agent violates 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 the situation with protesters in Portland and called on them to “step back and focus on de-escalating” the situations.
“[T]The entire protests that are taking place are being handled 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 are held accountable. If criminal activity occurs, they are held accountable. This is what free speech looks like, and I believe the federal government can continue to get the job done right here.
