Standing Up for Oregonians: A Plan to Hold ICE Accountable

Oregon is home to families from every background. People work here, raise their children here, go to school here, and build their lives here. No one should have to live in fear that they could be taken, mistreated, or disappeared by a government agency without basic rights being respected.

Yet we have seen far too many reports of people in Oregon being detained by ICE without due process, of U.S. citizens and legal residents being held, of personal belongings taken, of families being separated, and of people being treated in ways that violate both our laws and our humanity. These are not abstract stories, these are real people, right here in our communities.

As Governor, I will not ignore that.

I believe accountability is not optional. It is the foundation of a democracy.

That is why I will begin with a full, independent criminal investigation into ICE’s conduct in Oregon. This investigation will focus on whether state laws and constitutional protections have been violated, including unlawful detention, denial of due process, abuse or neglect while in custody, and the taking or destruction of personal property. No agency, federal or otherwise, is above the law when operating inside our state.

At the same time, Oregon will pursue a civil rights lawsuit against ICE. This is about more than money, it is about forcing change and taking a stand that is long overdue. That lawsuit will seek court orders to stop illegal practices, require transparency and reporting, and provide justice for those who were harmed.

As Governor, I will also strengthen Oregon’s sanctuary laws, not weaken them. That means making sure our state and local agencies are not being used to help violate people’s rights. It means investigating any agency, including our police force, that crosses that line, ending cooperation when federal agencies break Oregon law, and requiring public accountability for any interaction with ICE.

And because this is about people, not just policy, my administration will make sure survivors and families are supported. That includes access to legal help, mental health services for those traumatized by detention, and a state system for documenting abuses so no one is forced to suffer in silence.

This work matters to every Oregonian. When any government agency can detain people without due process, mistreat them in custody, or operate without oversight, everyone’s rights are at risk. Civil rights do not disappear at the border of an agency badge.

My promise as Governor is simple, I will defend the people of Oregon. I will enforce our laws. I will stand up for human dignity, constitutional rights, and the belief that no one, no matter who they are, should ever be invisible to justice.

That is what leadership looks like.