President Donald Trump orders military deployment to Portland, Oregon, authorizes use of "full force" if necessary to fight crime

President Donald Trump orders military deployment to Portland, Oregon, authorizes use of "full force" if necessary to fight crime

President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of military forces to Portland, Oregon, in an effort to combat crime in the region. The decision comes amidst a series of high-profile legal actions and political moves by the Trump administration that have drawn widespread criticism.

The deployment, which includes the use of the National Guard, was announced on Friday, September 12, 2025. Trump stated that he would authorize the use of "full force" if necessary to combat crime and restore order in Portland, a city known for its political activism and protests. The move follows recent indictments against former FBI Director James Comey and other political figures, marking a continuation of Trump's campaign to target his perceived enemies.

The deployment of military forces to Portland is a significant escalation in Trump's use of executive power. Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump has leveraged his position to target political rivals and institutions. He has pushed for charges against former national security adviser John Bolton, New York Attorney-General Letitia James, and Democratic senator Adam Schiff, among others .

Critics argue that Trump's actions amount to an abuse of power, putting political opponents at risk of retaliation. Senator Mark Warner, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, described Trump's actions as a "dangerous abuse of power" .

The move to Portland is part of a broader trend of Trump using his executive authority to target perceived threats. In July 2025, the White House posted an image of Trump against a backdrop of fireworks and American flags, with the caption "I was the hunted. NOW I'M THE HUNTER," signaling his intention to turn the tables on his political adversaries .

The deployment of military forces to Portland is likely to be controversial. While some may see it as a necessary step to combat crime, others will view it as a political move designed to silence dissent and consolidate power. The use of military force in domestic law enforcement has been a contentious issue in the United States, with concerns about the potential for abuse and the erosion of civil liberties.

As the situation in Portland unfolds, investors and financial professionals will be closely watching the implications for the economy and the political landscape. The deployment of military forces and the ongoing legal actions by the Trump administration could have significant impacts on market sentiment and the broader political climate.