Antifa activists descended on a rally being held by the far-right group Proud Boys on Saturday in Portland, Oregon.
Police prepared for violence as the antifa, or “anti-fascist,” activists came ready for confrontation to Waterfront Park in Portland. Close to 1,000 police officers are reportedly on the scene as over 200 sign and bullhorn-wielding protesters attempt to stand each other down.
Portland has been a hotbed of controversy involving antifa recently, drawing significant controversy when journalist Andy Ngo was physically attacked by protesters associated with Rose City Antifa while covering a recent rally.
The Proud Boys have also faced criticism for their values that many consider to be promotional of white supremacy.
The biggest clash I’ve seen so far. This one appears to have been between cops and the Antifa crowd. An officer shoved me in the ribs with a baton as well. pic.twitter.com/dX4Z9w8c67
— Mike Baker (@ByMikeBaker) August 17, 2019
Police are keeping the two sides separate. pic.twitter.com/hGKPgjbVK3
— Julio Rosas (@Julio_Rosas11) August 17, 2019
“Major consideration is being given to naming ANTIFA an ‘ORGANIZATION OF TERROR,'” President Trump tweeted on Saturday. “Portland is being watched very closely. Hopefully the Mayor will be able to properly do his job!”
Major consideration is being given to naming ANTIFA an “ORGANIZATION OF TERROR.” Portland is being watched very closely. Hopefully the Mayor will be able to properly do his job!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 17, 2019
