On November 7, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Karin J. Immergut issued a ruling that prevents the Trump administration from deploying National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon, in response to ongoing protests against immigration policies. This decision follows a lawsuit filed by the state of Oregon and the city of Portland, which contended that the deployment was unnecessary and violated legal statutes.

Judge Immergut, appointed by Trump, found that the administration failed to provide credible evidence supporting the need for military intervention under Title 10 of the U.S. Code, which permits troop deployment only in cases of invasion or rebellion. The ruling allows the National Guard to remain federalized but prohibits their deployment in Portland.

The Trump administration had previously federalized 200 Oregon National Guard troops, describing the situation in Portland as 'war ravaged.' In response, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield characterized the ruling as a significant victory for the state, highlighting the importance of accountability and adherence to the rule of law.

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson echoed this sentiment, asserting that the presence of federal troops was unwarranted and reaffirming the city's commitment to protecting civil rights and public safety. In contrast, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson indicated that the administration plans to appeal the ruling, maintaining that the deployment was necessary to address what she described as violent riots and lawlessness in the city. Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin supported this view, asserting that the actions taken were lawful and aimed at safeguarding federal personnel and assets.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek criticized the federal intervention as an abuse of power, reiterating that the state does not require military presence to maintain order. During the trial, the state and city presented evidence that federal agents had exacerbated tensions at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, undermining the justification for military involvement.

Judge Immergut's ruling emphasized that the protests, which peaked in June 2025, did not constitute a rebellion and were largely peaceful. The judge noted that the Trump administration's claims of a need for military intervention were unfounded, as the protests did not impede federal law enforcement activities. Furthermore, the ruling addressed the violation of Oregon's sovereignty under the 10th Amendment, indicating that the Trump administration's actions caused irreparable harm to the state. Legal experts suggest that the administration's chances of success in an appeal may be diminished due to the findings presented in this ruling.