Oregon Governor Warns Trump Troop Deployment May Cost $10M
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has raised concerns about the potential financial implications of a federal troop deployment in Portland, estimating that it could cost taxpayers up to $10 million. In a press release issued on March 13, 2024, Kotek detailed that this figure includes salaries for around 200 soldiers, along with expenses for food, lodging, equipment, and other necessities during the planned 60-day deployment.
This estimate represents a notable increase from the $3.8 million figure provided by an official from the Oregon Military Department during a legislative hearing on March 12. The lower estimate was based solely on salary projections, prompting Kotek to express her dissatisfaction with the financial burden being placed on Oregon residents.
In a legal response to the situation, Kotek and Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield filed a lawsuit on March 11, seeking a judicial declaration to deem the troop deployment illegal and to issue an emergency restraining order to halt the mobilization. A hearing for this case is scheduled for March 15, and it remains uncertain whether any troops will be deployed by that date.
Despite a lack of visible military presence in Portland, former President Donald Trump claimed on March 13 that the National Guard members were already “in place.” Kotek responded to this assertion by emphasizing that the funds allocated for the deployment could be better utilized to address pressing issues faced by Oregonians.
“Wasting an estimated $10 million on fabricated problems is an insult to Americans who are struggling with the cost of living, access to affordable healthcare, safety in their neighborhoods, and more,” Kotek stated. “Not only is this an abuse of power, but it also represents a dereliction of the president’s duty to solve real problems.”
While local law enforcement officials anticipate that the National Guard will primarily focus on “site security,” Kotek highlighted that officials from the U.S. Department of Defense have not yet confirmed the specific details or scope of the deployment. The uncertainty surrounding the mobilization has raised questions among community members about the necessity and effectiveness of such federal intervention in local matters.
As the situation unfolds, residents and lawmakers alike are awaiting clarity on both the legal proceedings and the potential deployment of troops to Portland.
