Oregon Officials Denounce Federal Use of Force at Eugene Protests

Gov. Kotek, Mayor Knudson, and Rep. Hoyle call for peaceful demonstrations against ICE tactics

Feb. 1, 2026 at 7:55pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a joint press conference, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson, and U.S. Representative Val Hoyle condemned the federal government's use of force against protesters at the Eugene Federal Building. The officials urged residents to exercise their First Amendment rights through peaceful demonstrations, while avoiding property damage or confrontations with law enforcement.

Why it matters

The clash between protesters and federal agents in Eugene highlights the ongoing tensions between local and national authorities over the appropriate response to civil unrest. The officials' statements aim to de-escalate the situation and protect the community's right to free speech, while also maintaining public safety.

The details

During the press conference, Governor Kotek said Americans must 'stand together to push back against ICE tactics that create fear, tear families apart and take people's lives.' Representative Hoyle noted that as a smaller city, Eugene is held to a different standard for protests compared to larger metropolitan areas. She urged residents to 'keep showing up' and exercise their rights, but to 'stay away from the federal building' and avoid property destruction.

  • The press conference was held on Sunday, February 2, 2026.
  • Protests at the Eugene Federal Building have been ongoing for several days.

The players

Tina Kotek

The Governor of Oregon, who condemned the federal government's use of force against protesters.

Kaarin Knudson

The Mayor of Eugene, who joined Governor Kotek in denouncing the federal response to the protests.

Val Hoyle

The U.S. Representative for Oregon's 4th Congressional District, who urged residents to exercise their First Amendment rights through peaceful demonstrations.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We have to effectively push back on the Trump administration. That means freedom of speech, freedom of expression. It is also true that we can do that without breaking the law, damaging property or putting other people at risk.”

— Tina Kotek, Governor of Oregon

“I do not want to see 2,000 to 3,000 ICE agents in Eugene. Peacefully protesting and not destroying property or coming close to destroying property is important. Stay away from the federal building. That's all. It's simple.”

— Val Hoyle, U.S. Representative for Oregon's 4th Congressional District

What’s next

The officials indicated they will continue to work with local law enforcement to maintain public safety and protect residents' constitutional rights during the ongoing protests.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the delicate balance between the right to protest and the need for public order, as well as the complex dynamics between federal, state, and local authorities when it comes to managing civil unrest. The officials' joint response aims to de-escalate tensions and find a peaceful resolution.