In recent weeks, the nation’s eyes have been fixed on Portland, Oregon, where nightly protests have devolved into relentless attacks on federal property and, disturbingly, on the very fabric of law and order. As federal buildings burned and local police faced an onslaught of violence, a clear and present danger to our democratic institutions and the safety of our communities emerged. Amidst this chaos, one leader stood firm, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the brave men and women who wear the badge: President Donald Trump.
The American Police Officers Alliance, along with countless concerned citizens and dedicated law enforcement supporters, has watched with growing alarm as the situation in Portland escalated. What began as protests has, in many instances, morphed into organized assaults against federal officers, the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse, and the fundamental principle that our laws must be enforced and respected. We’ve seen brave federal agents, tasked with protecting vital government assets, endure sustained attacks with projectiles, fireworks, and even incendiary devices. This is not peaceful protest; it is targeted aggression aimed at undermining authority and creating anarchy.
But the violence hasn’t stopped at federal property. The local heroes of the Portland Police Bureau have been on the front lines, day after day, night after night, attempting to maintain order under incredibly challenging circumstances. They have faced overwhelming odds, limited resources, and, in some cases, a lack of consistent political support, leaving them vulnerable to escalating aggression. Our police officers, who put their lives on the line every day to protect us, found themselves in an untenable situation, battling chaos while simultaneously being subjected to calls for defunding and demonization.
It was at this critical moment that President Trump took decisive action. Recognizing the severity of the situation and the urgent need to restore order, he deployed federal law enforcement assets to Portland. This was not an act of aggression against peaceful protest, but a necessary intervention to protect federal property and, crucially, to provide much-needed support and relief to the beleaguered local police force.
For too long, our law enforcement officers have been under attack, both physically and ideologically. The narrative pushed by some that police are the problem, rather than the solution, has emboldened those who seek to sow discord and dismantle our institutions. President Trump, however, has consistently rejected this dangerous rhetoric. He understands that a strong society depends on strong law enforcement. He recognizes the sacrifices our officers make and has, time and again, stood up as their most vocal and steadfast defender.
Dan Stebbins, Executive Director of the American Police Officers Alliance, encapsulates our sentiments perfectly: “President Trump has once again proven himself to be the unwavering champion our police officers desperately need. For weeks, we have witnessed a disgraceful assault on law and order in Portland, with federal buildings under siege and local police facing relentless aggression. While many have stood by, President Trump bravely stepped in, demonstrating his unyielding commitment to the safety of our officers and the rule of law.”
This intervention sends a clear message: attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated. Our federal buildings, symbols of our democracy, will be protected. And perhaps most importantly, our police officers, federal and local, will be supported as they perform their dangerous duties. It is a stark reminder that President Trump prioritizes the safety of our communities and the rule of law above all else.
For our donors and activists who so passionately support police, this moment reaffirms why your commitment is so vital. We must continue to stand with President Trump and with all law enforcement officers. We must educate our communities about the critical role police play and counter the false narratives that seek to undermine their authority. We must ensure that our officers have the resources, training, and unwavering public support they need to keep us safe.
The situation in Portland is a microcosm of a larger battle for the soul of our nation. It is a battle between order and anarchy, between respect for institutions and a desire to tear them down. President Trump has chosen his side unequivocally: he stands with law enforcement. We, the American Police Officers Alliance, call on all our supporters to stand with him, and more importantly, to stand with the heroes who protect and serve every single day. Let us amplify our voices, support our police, and ensure that law and order prevail.
