ICE Expands Enforcement Efforts in Oregon

Advocates say federal agents are now targeting immigrants beyond just Latino communities

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:29pm

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A moody, cinematic painting of a lone figure standing in the shadows of a government office building, the only light coming from a single warm window, conceptually representing the isolation and uncertainty faced by immigrant communities under increased federal scrutiny.Expanded immigration enforcement efforts in Oregon spark concerns over the impact on diverse immigrant communities.Gresham Today

Federal immigration agents have been increasingly targeting immigrants from Laos and other backgrounds in Oregon, not just Latino communities, according to local advocates. This includes the recent arrest of a Gresham man that prompted U.S. Rep. Maxine Dexter to intervene at the Portland immigration office.

Why it matters

The expanded enforcement efforts by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Oregon have raised concerns among immigrant rights groups about the agency's tactics and the impact on diverse immigrant communities in the state.

The details

Advocates say ICE agents have been arresting immigrants from Laos and other backgrounds in Oregon, not just those of Latino descent. This includes the recent detention of a Gresham man, which prompted U.S. Rep. Maxine Dexter to show up at the Portland immigration office over the weekend to intervene.

  • On April 16, 2026, federal immigration agents arrested a Gresham man, prompting Rep. Maxine Dexter to respond.

The players

Maxine Dexter

A U.S. Representative who intervened at the Portland immigration office in response to the recent arrest of a Gresham immigrant.

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What they’re saying

“ICE now seems to be going after everyone, not just Latinos, which is very concerning to us.”

— Immigrant rights advocate

The takeaway

The expanded ICE enforcement in Oregon beyond just Latino communities raises questions about the agency's tactics and the impact on diverse immigrant populations in the state.