Trump Administration Seeks to Remove Final Barrier to Portland National Guard Deployment

The Trump administration filed a motion on October 20, 2025, to dissolve a temporary restraining order blocking National Guard deployments from all states to Portland, Oregon. This follows a Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling on the same day overturning a prior order that barred the Oregon National Guard specifically.

The broader order, issued by U.S. District Judge Karin Immergut, remains in effect until November 2, 2025, prohibiting any state's Guard units from entering the city. Prosecutors argued the appellate decision warrants immediate dissolution, citing the president's authority to federalize troops for protecting federal property.

The appeals panel concluded President Trump likely acted within his statutory powers, noting evidence supported deployment despite public statements. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield criticized the ruling, stating Portland is peaceful and urging reversal to protect state sovereignty. Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the decision, highlighting local leaders' failure to ensure citizen safety.

Protests in Portland intensified in 2025, focusing on the Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility. Demonstrations began in June, with nightly gatherings leading to confrontations, property damage, and arrests. Federal agents have faced thrown projectiles, including fireworks and rocks, disrupting operations and requiring enhanced security.

In September 2025, President Trump federalized 200 Oregon National Guard members to safeguard federal assets amid the unrest. Local and state officials opposed the move, leading to Immergut's initial block, which cited insufficient violence. The Ninth Circuit lifted that restriction for Oregon troops, prompting the motion to address the remaining order.

The Oregon Military Department indicated units will deploy later in the week. The city and state have not yet responded to the filing.