John -- What is happening to people in Portland is terrifying. 

An Executive Order signed by President Trump on June 26th has given the presidency the authority to mobilize an unaccountable police force. 

The use of drones, unmarked vehicles, and ground forces with no official markings are being reported in Portland. DHS, CBP, and ICE have acted almost unchecked since this president was sworn into office. A wide range of inhumane tactics have been unleashed on people by this xenophobic president who has given breadth to white-nationalists like Steven Miller to create unconstitutional legislation designed to push his nationalist agenda.

Even one city invaded, even one arrest without due process is abhorrent. Where does it end? What city is next? There is apparently no plan to isolate these actions to Portland. DHS head, Ken Cucinelli, stated that not only will they not stop these actions, they are taking them nationwide. This should strike fear into EVERY American.   

Congress must step up immediately to protect the rights of ALL Americans, and defend the Constitution.  

When an unmarked authority arrests individuals and takes them to undisclosed locations, there is no avenue for protection. How do we hold anyone accountable for wrongful arrests or treatment of those detained? The tactics at Guantanamo Bay, and inhumane conditions at migrant detention facilities along our nation’s southern border serve as reminders of what happens when power is wielded without oversight. This can’t be allowed to continue.  

This election year could not be more important. Our democracy and freedoms depend on it. 

We had an opportunity to elect three bold progressives in Oregon, now we must do all we can to get our remaining candidates through their primaries and support them in the general.

In solidarity,

Zeynab Day