Reports of a ramp-up in federal officers in Portland on Friday prompted local officials to quickly urge residents: Don’t react.

“Don’t take the bait,” said U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, flanked by city, county and federal officials at a Northeast Portland church Friday evening.

The press conference came after multiple sightings of armored cars coming and going from the ICE building on SW Macadam Avenue in Portland. Mayor Keith Wilson opened his remarks at the press conference by saying there was a “sudden influx” of federal troops.

Officials couldn’t say how many federal agents or what agencies they represent have suddenly emerged in the city. Their appearance comes after President Donald Trump repeatedly portrayed the city as out of control, which local officials have disputed.

Wilson couldn’t cite any direct knowledge of federal agents’ plans, but noted the appearance of the federal vehicles and recent remarks from the president targeting Portland.

ICE officials did not immediately respond to a request for information about the reported influx.

Like Merkley, multiple officials suggested the uptick was aimed at goading protesters into a conflict. They repeatedly described it as a trap and implored protesters to demonstrate peacefully.

“Do not give them what they want tonight or tomorrow night,” said Portland City Councilor Eric Zimmerman.

Federal agents and protesters have clashed regularly outside the ICE building near Portland’s south waterfront. Those have led to numerous federal charges against protesters, though most have been misdemeanor charges over relatively minor incidents.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2025/09/26/ice-building-portland-leaders-urge-calm-increase-federal-officers/