Oregon Governors, Mayors Call for Pause on Immigration Enforcement

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Oregon Governor Tina Kotek and 31 mayors from across the state have sent a letter to federal officials calling for a pause on all immigration enforcement in Oregon until recent violent incidents involving federal immigration officers are fully investigated. The mayors, representing a diverse range of cities, say the actions of federal immigration officers are damaging local economies and hurting communities, with parents afraid to take their children to school and families avoiding healthcare and everyday activities.

Why it matters

This letter reflects growing tensions between state and local leaders and the federal government over immigration enforcement tactics. The signers argue the actions of federal immigration officers are undermining public safety and trust in local institutions, and they are demanding accountability for recent incidents of alleged excessive force.

The details

The letter, addressed to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and White House border czar Tom Homan, states that the actions of federal immigration officers 'are not making our communities safer.' It cites specific incidents in Minneapolis, Portland, and elsewhere where federal officers have used tactics like tear gas on protesters outside federal buildings. The mayors say these tactics have damaged local economies and hurt the people they are responsible for protecting.

• The letter was sent on Thursday, February 6, 2026.

What’s next

The federal government will need to respond to the demands outlined in the letter from Governor Kotek and the 31 mayors. It remains to be seen if they will agree to pause immigration enforcement in Oregon until the recent incidents are fully investigated.