Far-right group plans further protests after Portland violence
THE leader of Right-wing protesters who were embroiled in violent clashes with counter-demonstrators in Portland, Oregon, has threatened to return to the city every month.
Enrique Tarrio, chairman of the Proud Boys, escalated the long-running feud between white supremacists and Antifa, a loose coalition of Left-wing and anarchist groups, which has brought mayhem to the streets of a number of American cities.
He said his group would stage further demonstrations until Ted Wheeler, the mayor of Portland, moved against Antifa.
“The path forward for Mayor Wheeler is simple: free your city from the grip of Antifa, take direct and meaningful action,” he said.
At least 13 people were arrested and six injured in clashes on Saturday. Police seized weapons including bear spray, metal poles, batons and curtain rods.
Members of the Three Percenters, a paramilitary group that pledges to defend “constitutional rights”, were among the Right-wing protesters, some of whom wore body armour. Portland Police deployed 1,000 officers.
Donald Trump appeared to lay blame on Antifa for the violence, writing on Twitter: “Major consideration is being given to naming ANTIFA an ‘ORGANIZATION OF TERROR’ … Portland is being watched very closely.”
He added: “Hopefully the Mayor will be able to properly do his job!”
A senate resolution, designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist group, has been proposed by Ted Cruz, the Texas Republican.
Mr Trump’s tweet was described as “not helpful” by Mr Wheeler.