Merkley's Anti-ICE Radicalism

Merkley's Attack on ICE: Putting Politics Over Public Safety

In Oregon, federal ICE officers risk their lives every day to enforce immigration laws passed by Congress—laws designed to remove criminal illegal immigrants, combat drug trafficking, and protect American communities. Yet, state and local leaders, particularly U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, have repeatedly demonized these officers, calling their operations "fascism," "terrorizing," and demanding they "end dangerous enforcement" in the state.

Recent events highlight the danger of this hateful rhetoric.

In January 2026, following incidents involving federal agents in Portland—including shootings tied to enforcement actions—Merkley posted on X that ICE has "done nothing to make our communities safer" and labeled their work "fascism," while urging an end to operations.

He has described raids as "violently detaining people solely based on the color of their skin" and accused agents of terrorizing communities without due process.

Such inflammatory language from elected officials doesn't just criticize policy—it paints dedicated law enforcement officers as villains. This vilification has real consequences: ICE officers face surging threats, including doxxing of their families, death threats, and assaults, with reports of a dramatic increase in attacks on federal agents amid heightened protests and unrest in Portland.

When political leaders like Merkley call routine enforcement "authoritarian" and demand investigations that question federal trustworthiness, they embolden hostility, placing literal and figurative targets on officers' backs.

This upside-down priority is unacceptable.

ICE focuses on public safety threats—removing gang members, drug traffickers, and violent offenders who should never have been here illegally in the first place. Sanctuary policies in Oregon have already led to cases where criminal illegal immigrants were released back into communities, endangering citizens.

Prioritizing protections for those who violate federal law over the safety of American families and the brave men and women of ICE inverts justice.Supporting law enforcement means backing ICE officers and their families first.

They uphold the rule of law amid daily risks, while Oregon officials shield illegal immigrants—even potential criminals—from deportation. True safety comes from enforcing borders and laws, not from demonizing those who do the job Congress assigned.

It's time for all Oregon leaders to stop the attacks, respect federal authority, and put American citizens and legal residents first. Our officers deserve gratitude, not vilification.