Oregon Governor Confronts Trump Over Attempt to Override State Authority

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek says she is the commander-in-chief of the state and will not be overridden by President Donald Trump who she criticized for sending in the National Guard to pro-immigrant demonstrations in Los Angeles over the weekend.

There Are No Plans to Send in the National Guard to Any Rallies in Oregon

Addressing reporters on Monday, Kotek said she has no plans to send the National Guard to any rallies, anywhere, in Oregon. She said there had been no incidents at any gathering in Oregon, and there was no reason to believe that this situation would change.

Kotek was critical of Trump’s decision to call up the California National Guard without obtaining the consent of the state Governor Gavin Newsom. She told reporters that the president’s action was unlawful and undermined the authority of local governments.

‘I am the commander-in-chief and if there is any activity that needs to be taken care of, it will be done by our local law enforcement.’

Trump’s Actions Created More Fear Among Oregon’s Immigrant Communities

The Governor said the intervention of the National Guard at the California rally has created more fear among Oregon’s immigrant communities.

Dispelling any possible concerns, Kotek reminded that Oregon is a sanctuary state, committed to protecting its immigrant population who deserve to feel safe.

Kotek said local authorities should be allowed to do their work without federal intervention ‘escalating and inflaming’ the situation, adding that President Trump did not have the authority to override her.

The Governor said she is in close communication with law enforcement agencies and is confident that they will meet the safety needs of all Oregonians.