Portland's Unified Command Prepares for 2024 Election

Mayor Ted Wheeler joined city leaders and law enforcement partners to emphasize their commitment to supporting First Amendment rights while ensuring community safety ahead of the 2024 election. The group held a press conference on October 30, 2024.

"We all deeply believe in our community's right and ability to exercise free speech, and I believe the vast majority of Portlanders want to come together to do so peacefully," said Mayor Wheeler. "While I am hopeful it will not be necessary, we are prepared to interdict criminal behavior if it does occur."

A Unified Command Team comprised of City, County, State, and Federal partners has been working for months on extensive planning to ensure comprehensive preparedness for multiple scenarios and potential civil unrest.

"We stand together today to demonstrate these commitments and ensure the community knows that we are united in our efforts and our expectations," Mayor Wheeler said.

Mayor Wheeler does not anticipate any interruption to City business through election season.

Police Chief Bob Day saidofficers were required to cancel days off starting on Election Day and all sworn officers will be working 12-hour shifts.

"This is a chance for us to tell a different story about Portland and build upon the renewal that's happening every day," Chief Day said.

Speakers at the press conference included:

• Chief Bob Day, Portland Police
• Director Shad Ahmed, Portland Bureau of Emergency Management
• Sheriff Nicole Morrisey O'Donnell, Multnomah County
• DA Mike Schmidt, Multnomah County
• Doug Olson, FBI, Special Agent in Charge, Portland Field Office
• Jessica Vega Pederson, Multnomah County Chair
• Dr. Vernon Baker, Representing Community Advisory Group
• Andrew Hoan, Portland Metro Chamber

You can stay informed by following Portland Police Bureau's social media platforms, including @Portland Policeand the special events page, @PPBAlerts,on X (formerly Twitter).