GOVERNOR REAFFIRMS COMMITTMENT TO IMMIGRANT AND REFUGEE COMMUNITIES

October 13, 2026 2:50 a.m.  

On Monday, Governor Tina Kotek called on Oregonians to stand united as the current presidential administration escalates Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities across Oregon. Kotek also directed state agencies to strengthen coordination and information sharing.

A release from the governor’s office said Oregon news media and community organizations have reported a notable increase in daily detentions by ICE, with at least 45 detentions since October 6th. On Thursday, ICE arrived at a NORPAC fruit and vegetable processing facility in Brooks, where 300 day-shift workers were on site. On Saturday, ICE used tear gas in a Salem residential neighborhood to disperse crowds opposed to their presence.

Governor Kotek said, “Oregon is home to vibrant immigrant and refugee communities who contribute every day to our neighborhoods, our economy, and our shared future.” Kotek said, “I expect every state agency and every local law enforcement partner to follow Oregon’s Sanctuary Law. That law is clear: state and local resources will not be used to assist federal immigration enforcement. Oregon will continue to be a place that protects access to schools, health care, housing, and small businesses so that no one is afraid to go about their daily lives.”

The release said the Governor’s Office continues to coordinate closely with state agencies through the Interagency Council on Immigrant and Refugee Coordination, established by Executive Order 26-04 in January.