Oregon House Republican Leader Christine Drazan (R-Canby) released the following statement on the ongoing violence in Portland: “Riots in Portland have been allowed to continue for far too long. Last night’s riots were planned and executed to risk the lives of officers working in their precinct. This destruction and violence must end. The premeditated attacks on Portland Police Precincts while law enforcement officers and civilian employees were inside must be recognized as an unlawful attempt to harm or kill Oregonians. Those arrested in last night’s event should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We stand with our law enforcement community and demand accountability.

The destruction must stop so that we can move forward and create lasting change.” Representative Bill Post (R-Keizer) added, “I strongly urge the Governor to put a stop to this violence. These protests are anything but peaceful as they continue to destroy the city and put law enforcement at risk. As of last night, this violence moved from a small core of downtown Portland and public buildings to private neighborhoods. Violence breeds violence. We must do better.”

Representative Vikki Breese Iverson (R-Prineville) stated: “At what point do Oregonians hold our Governor and Mayor Wheeler responsible for the violent criminal acts occurring night after night? All Oregonians deserve better!” Representative Raquel Moore-Green (R-Salem) said: “The attack on Portland Police East Precinct last night was planned with willful intent to cause deadly harm – not a peaceful protest. I urge the Governor and Mayor Wheeler to condemn these actions and put an end to the violence now.”

Representative Greg Barreto (R-Cove) added: “The unchecked chaos and lawlessness that is being committed by rioters in Portland and basically promoted by Democrat leadership is absolutely abhorrent. When did the liberal leaders of Portland become so irrational in their viewpoint on police, basic law enforcement and the need for order? Their lack of wisdom and common sense, to think they could defund law enforcement, taking away their capacity to not only protect citizens, but also their basic right to even protect themselves, is unbelievable. For law enforcement officers, it is unimaginable what it must be like to be willing to serve and put your life on the line for those that would place you in a compromised position and not have your back.”

Representative E. Werner Reschke (R-Klamath Falls) stated: “Portland is becoming an embarrassment to our wonderful state. It is past time that Portland’s Mayor, the Governor and District Attorney support the rule of law. Oregon law enforcement should not be hand-cuffed with restrictions preventing them from doing their job to enforce safety. Police need the full support of all political leaders to arrest those who are committing crimes of violence and vandalism. Moreover, these individuals should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Without effective action, riots and violence will continue to spread.”

Representative Mike Nearman (R-Independence) added: "It's a shame to see Portlanders -- as well as riot tourists -- tearing up the city of Portland, while their feckless leaders do nothing but blame the President. Enough is enough. They need to get this under control."


--Staff Reports

Post Date: 2020-08-06 17:30:08