TIME Magazine Editorial: Portland Doesn’t Need or Want Federal Troops

Dear Friends,

If you have a moment this morning, I hope you'll read my TIME Magazine editorial about the recent events that have thrust Portland into the national spotlight. As I said in my piece, there is no squaring the federal administration's irresponsible and wrongheaded words about our city with "... the Portland I see every day, a Portland of creativity and natural beauty, of kindness and compassion, and of community principles and purpose."

Read TIME Magazine Editorial

If just one paragraph reaches a national audience, I hope it is this one.

"The federal government is retreating from its longstanding housing and economic responsibility to cities across the nation. This has left a leadership vacuum in place of a partnership for the future of Oregon's prosperity and freedom. Anyone willing to lend a hand to Portland has a seat at the table, including the federal government. We want them back at that table, the sooner the better."  

I am so proud of the Portlanders who have raised their voices with peace and purpose in recent days, and how our public safety first responders continue to meet the call of service. In Washington, D.C., we see shutdown and chaos. In Portland, we see unity, support of our neighbors, and love for our community. That's the Portland way, and that's what will see us through the coming days.

Gratefully,

Mayor Keith Wilson