Tensions flared Tuesday night in South Portland as federal officers unleashed pepper balls from the roof of an ICE facility, stormed nearby streets, and arrested at least four people. The move came just days after President Trump authorized the deployment of 200 Oregon National Guard troops to protect federal buildings amid a Democrat-driven government shutdown. While one detainee was later released, authorities refused to confirm charges, fueling outrage from protesters who have rallied outside the site for months.

The scene turned chaotic as dozens of agents marched through crowds, tackling demonstrators and dragging some into custody before retreating back inside. Protesters accused the administration of escalating conflict while local officials insisted they could handle unrest without federal intervention. With Trump signaling similar deployments in other cities, including Chicago and New York, critics warn the crackdown is less about public safety and more about advancing his hardline immigration agenda.