Trump's Executive Order: A New Move to Intimidate Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — On Wednesday, the Trump Administration issued three new executive orders, with one aimed at addressing sanctuary cities.

It will instruct the Attorney General, Pam Bondi, to furnish a roster of sanctuary cities to the administration," said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt at a press conference on Wednesday. "Should these sanctuary cities be violating federal laws, the Office of Management andBudget will review their federal funding.

Despite federal threats, Portland authorities continue to stand firm on their sanctuary city policy.

She added, "Again, if you're challenging federal law, you are jeopardizing your own federal funding by doing so."

Portland City Council President Elana Pirtle-Guiney informed KOIN 6 News that this action represents another instance of the Trump administration trying to seize more authority than what is permitted.

We're still in the process of understanding all the details within that executive order," she stated. "However, from my perspective, this seems like yet another effort to pressure Portland, Oregon, along with various other cities and states across the nation, into implementing federal immigration policies, even though our law enforcement should prioritize addressing local concerns.

Judge prevents Trump from withholding federal money from 'sanctuary' cities that restrict immigration collaboration

As stated by the White House, the Attorney General will release a list of sanctuary jurisdictions that "hinder federal immigration laws" within 30 days following the issuance of the executive order. Each jurisdiction identified as non-compliant will be informed about this designation.

The directive aims to stop federal assistance from being provided to any undocumented immigrants residing in sanctuary cities.

The Director of the Office of Management and Budget is instructed to identify suitable federal funding sources for sanctuary jurisdictions, such as grants and contracts, with potential actions including their suspension or termination where applicable, particularly concerning those sanctuaries listed.

The Department of Homeland Security must seek every required legal remedy and enforcement action to address these violations and ensure that those jurisdictions comply with U.S. laws.

This development occurs as the City of Portland along with numerous others has filed lawsuits against the Trump Administration due to comparable executive orders. It also follows just a week after a federal judge prevented the president from withholding federal funds from cities that provide immigration safeguards.

"The Trump administration attempted this before by considering the withholding of funds. Last week, we were granted a temporary restraining order halting that executive directive," explained Pirtle-Guiney.

Because of their sanctuary designation, places such as Portland restrict collaboration with federal immigration enforcement agencies to safeguard undocumented immigrants against being deported.

Portland has joined a nationwide legal action opposing the Trump administration's policies towards sanctuary cities.

Since 2017, Portland has operated as a sanctuary city following a resolution adopted by the City Council. The measure ensures that municipal resources such as funding, personnel, and equipment cannot be utilized for enforcing immigration laws.

We find ourselves amidst budget reductions," Pirtle-Guiney stated. "Our law enforcement organization is spread quite thinly and faces rigorous demands concerning public safety within our locality." She continued, "While opinions may vary regarding whether individuals in our area pose threats to communal security as perceived by the federal government, I believe we concur that those committed to fulfilling specific duties must adhere strictly to what their role entails. For our local police force, this primarily involves upholding regional statutes.

In a statement to KOIN 6 News, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson stated:

Portland remains steadfast in its dedication to sanctuary policies, based on the principle that all residents, even immigrants, are entitled to dignity, respect, and security. Recent judicial decisions confirm that resources for public safety, disaster aid, housing, and transportation must not fall victim to unconstitutional federal encroachment or meddling.

The city ofPortland adheres strictly to all relevant federal and state regulations and will not hinder legitimate federal law enforcement activities. Notably, our police force will refrain from acting as deputies for ICE. We remain committed to maintaining the principles of inclusivity and fairness that characterize our community, and we will robustly resist any illegal attempts to block access to crucial services or financial support.

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