PORTLAND (NewsNation) — Tensions are high in Portland as nightly protests outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility swell heading into the weekend.
At least three people, including a prominent conservative influencer, were arrested during Thursday night’s demonstrations after police said fights broke out among protesters. Federal officers were also deploying chemical agents on the crowd.
Since June, nearly 150 people have been arrested at the South Portland ICE facility, where protests have been nearly non-stop.
While most demonstrators have remained peaceful, clashes have occasionally turned violent, prompting federal officials to consider a stronger response. President DonaldTrump has referred to the situation as a “war zone” and a “hellhole.”
National Guard deployment under review
Roughly 200 Oregon National Guard members are now under federal control and undergoing specialized training at a coastal base ahead of possible deployment. It remains unclear if they will be armed, but Trump has authorized the use of “full force.”
Anna Wilkins, a veteran and former guard member who lives near the base, questions the federalization and mission.
“I personally wouldn’t agree with being deployed in such a scenario,” she said. “I also don’t, from just a perspective of somebody who lives in the Pacific Northwest and spent time in Portland on occasion, I don’t understand what’s going on.”
An Oregon judge is set to hear the state’s argument on Friday for a temporary restraining order, which could delay the deployment of National Guard troops to Portland.
In opposition to the state’s court challenge, the Trump administration said the deployment is “tailored to the threat” at the ICE building, where “cruel activists” have used “vicious tactics.”
Apple removes ICE-tracking app
Meanwhile, Apple removed the app called “ICEBlock” from its App Store, which allowed users nationwide to report sightings of ICE officers.
The removal was initiated at the request of the Department of Justice. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security argues that the apps put law enforcement officers in danger.
Apple stated that it removed ICEBlock and similar apps due to safety concerns.