Portland, Oregon — A City Council member and Army veteran is urging military personnel to oppose President Donald Trump’s proposed National Guard deployment in the city. Councilor Mitch Green characterized the action as a threat to civil liberties, calling on former and current service members to challenge what he sees as an unlawful order.

In a recent video, Green appeared in his military uniform standing in Terry Schrunk Plaza, located near Portland City Hall. He expressed his belief that the Trump administration is unlawfully infringing on citizens’ rights. “We are facing an unprecedented assault on our civil rights,” he asserted, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.

Green represents District 4, which encompasses downtown Portland and is near a facility that has been a focal point for protests aimed at Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The councilor linked these demonstrations to the president’s justification for deploying federal troops, arguing that this move is an overreach of authority.

He appealed directly to active service members who may be called to Portland, reminding them of their commitment to uphold the Constitution. “Your oath is not a license for unqualified obedience to the president,” Green stated. He emphasized that military personnel are obligated to disobey unlawful commands.

In his call to action, Green urged service members and veterans to publicly oppose the deployment, encouraging them to don their uniforms and join peaceful protests. “Use your voice and engage your sense of duty,” he appealed, highlighting the moral responsibility he believes service members have to speak out against what he sees as tyranny.

Known for his progressive stance, Green is affiliated with the Democratic Socialists of America and has been vocal about standing against Trump’s policies since taking office earlier in the year. He has previously indicated he is willing to face legal repercussions to protect the rights of Portland’s residents.

“I feel compelled to take a stand rather than submit to authoritarian measures,” Green remarked in July, showing his dedication to the community amid escalating tensions. His commitment is part of a broader dialogue on the role of federal forces in local affairs and the implications for civil rights.

Green is not alone in his stance within the council. His fellow District 4 representative, Eric Zimmerman, who also has military experience, has opted to remain silent on the issue, indicating a division in perspective among council members with military backgrounds.

As the situation develops, the potential deployment of the National Guard has raised questions about the balance between maintaining order and protecting citizens’ rights, a tension that continues to shape discussions in Portland and beyond.