Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is drawing national backlash after issuing a warning that federal agents operating in her state to enforce immigration laws could face criminal prosecution.
In a video posted to Instagram, Kotek accused the Department of Homeland Security of carrying out “violent actions” and “stoking fear” in the name of immigration enforcement. She vowed to investigate any federal agent who, in her view, breaks Oregon law during immigration-related operations.
“I believe as you do, in the rule of law and keeping our community safe,” Kotek said. “We also believe in being a welcoming place, where our immigrant and refugee community help our state thrive. The ongoing violent actions of the federal Department of Homeland Security are unacceptable — going after Oregonians, and stoking fear in the name of ‘immigration enforcement.’”
Kotek further criticized what she called “excessive force” and “reckless tactics” by DHS agents and pledged to monitor all Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions within Oregon. She warned that any federal officer who violates state laws will be “held accountable — just like anyone else.”
The governor’s comments align with Oregon’s longstanding sanctuary policies, but her threat to prosecute federal agents marks a significant escalation. Critics argue that Kotek’s stance undermines federal authority and sets a dangerous precedent.
Kotek has previously clashed with federal law enforcement. In an October interview with CBS News, she accused federal agents of escalating confrontations with protesters in Portland and demanded they “stand back and focus on de-escalating.”
At a time when immigration enforcement is already a flashpoint nationally, Kotek’s comments are likely to intensify the debate over state versus federal jurisdiction — and raise questions about whether local prosecutors can or will follow through on her threats.
The post Oregon Governor Threatens to Prosecute Federal Agents Enforcing Immigration Laws appeared first on Real News Now.
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