As Election Day approaches, the Portland Police Bureau is implementing a strategy that includes placing all officers under a unified command starting this week. Terri Wallo Strauss, a spokesperson for the bureau, refrained from disclosing specific details about the operational plans or the number of officers that will be deployed, but emphasized that it will be an all-hands-on-deck effort.
The Oregon State Police is collaborating with local law enforcement in Portland, while the Oregon Department of Emergency Management coordinates with various tribal, local, state, and federal agencies. Governor Kotek has indicated that she is prepared to activate the National Guard if necessary, similar to actions taken by former Governor Kate Brown in 2020. The specific number of troops and their roles will depend on law enforcement assessments.
In preparation, Portland police have advised business owners to remove any outdoor items that could be used as projectiles or ignited, such as sandwich boards and construction materials. In case of emergencies, citizens are reminded to call 911 to report criminal activity, while non-emergency concerns can be directed to the Portland police line at 503-823-3333. Additionally, the public is advised that mass gatherings may disrupt traffic and public transportation, with TriMet and Portland Streetcar providing updates on service disruptions through their respective websites.
Portland has a history of election-related violence, with recent attacks reported on ballot boxes in both Portland and neighboring Vancouver, Washington. Kotek, alongside prominent figures such as Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, as well as Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade, has urged residents to refrain from repeating the violence seen in 2020.
The Portland Police have committed to investigating any unlawful activities or vandalism related to the election, making arrests when necessary, and forwarding cases to the Multnomah County District Attorney for prosecution. Investigations may also continue after Election Day.
As tensions rise nationally, Portland police are preparing for potential unrest, while the National Guard remains on standby. Political leaders are advocating for peaceful expressions of dissent, with the Portland Metro Chamber circulating a letter signed by 100 local leaders calling for civil discourse. Republican lawmakers have also condemned any form of election violence, reaffirming their commitment to the democratic process.
The unrest following the 2020 presidential election, which resulted in protests targeting businesses and churches, led to a declaration of a riot and the activation of the National Guard. Similarly, after the 2016 election of Donald Trump, Portland saw a surge in protests, with some turning violent.
With Trump running again this year and making baseless claims of election fraud, officials are aware of the heightened potential for violence, though it may not occur immediately on election night if results are delayed.
