Federal agents in Portland have used tear gas and pepper spray against peaceful protesters at the “No Kings” rally on Saturday evening. The clashes, which took place outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in South Portland, have led to multiple uses of chemical agents, three arrests, and minor injuries among participants. Despite the violence, the rally had initially attracted a festive atmosphere.
Protests Turn Violent as Police Use Force
The protest, which began around 4:30 p.m., initially featured a peaceful gathering with music, dancing, and attendees dressed in inflatable costumes. By evening, however, the situation escalated as protesters clashed with local and federal law enforcement. The use of tear gas at 4:30 p.m. dispersed dozens of demonstrators, with many requiring saline solution to treat their eyes. A second round of tear gas deployment occurred at 7:30 p.m., igniting small fires that were quickly extinguished by light rain.
Clashes Lead to Arrests and Injuries
Portland police reported at least three arrests during the day’s protests, with charges ranging from fourth-degree assault to second-degree bias crime and harassment. One of the first detained protesters was dragged to the ground by authorities before being released and returning to the demonstration later. Another individual was arrested after pepper balls were fired at the crowd, sparking physical confrontations between protestors and law enforcement.
A Party Atmosphere Turns Intense
Earlier in the day, the rally had a “party-like” atmosphere, with over 40,000 people attending, including counter-protesters. Music played and people danced, celebrating unity and resistance against the Trump administration. However, as night fell, tensions increased, leading to confrontations between a few hundred remaining protesters and police.
Trump’s National Guard Threat Looms
The unrest in Portland follows President Donald Trump’s declaration that he would send the National Guard to the city in response to increasing protests, particularly those involving the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Trump had previously warned he would use “Full Force, if necessary,” prompting legal battles between the state and federal governments over the use of military and federal forces in Democratic-led cities like Portland.