Protests Continue Outside Portland ICE Facility Amid High Tensions

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Protests and counter-protests continued outside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building on Monday night, October 6, 2025. Activists gathered to express their views on the Trump administration’s immigration policies, as tensions escalated with the potential deployment of the National Guard to the area.

Unlike previous days marked by arrests and unrest, Monday saw a shift to calmer dialogue between demonstrators. Viv Ivy, a counter-protester, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace. “I just hope that it stays peaceful, that it doesn’t bring violence or destruction of any kind,” she said, reflecting on the duration of ongoing protests.

Kelly Clark, a protester, echoed Ivy’s sentiments. “I am hoping that we can see each other’s points of view and join together to save democracy,” she stated. However, tensions rose significantly when someone burned an American flag, creating a moment of discord among the crowd.

Ivy remarked on the characterization of the protests, stating, “So when Trump said that it’s a war zone, he’s being a politician, and he’s being Trump. Do I take that literally? No, not at all.” Clark added, “I actually saw an interview with someone who identifies as MAGA, and she said it wasn’t the way it was being described. I’m hopeful others can see it too.”

Over the weekend, the Trump administration sought to send the National Guard to Portland, prompting swift legal challenges. More than 40 cities and counties filed a friend-of-the-court brief opposing the deployment, including Chicago and Los Angeles, which have faced similar threats.

On Tuesday, October 7, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem arrived in Portland to tour the ICE facility. She met with Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, who reiterated there is no insurrection in the state and voiced concerns over military intervention. “I continue to be focused on doing whatever I can to protect Oregonians from military intervention or harmful federal law enforcement tactics,” said Kotek.

Before Noem’s arrival, the Portland Police Bureau restricted access to the area around the ICE building, but no arrests were reported during the demonstrations. Protesters vocalized their dissent, leading to a notable clash of opinions while Secretary Noem toured the facility. Her motorcade departed around 3 p.m., while discussions with local law enforcement officials took place during her visit.

Oregon Senator Ron Wyden criticized Noem’s visit, suggesting that it was an attempt to incite violence. “Kristi Noem is cosplaying as a public official. The best response? Ignore her and keep supporting the members of our community,” he wrote in a statement.

This ongoing situation continues to evolve, with updates expected as community leaders and officials navigate the emerging challenges.