Part 6/13:
Portland’s political leadership has come under fire for their tepid response—or outright inaction—to the protests. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson has publicly stated that police will observe but not intervene in protests, under the rationale that they aim to uphold free speech unless violence occurs. This policy has frustrated residents like Grail, who argues that the city’s refusal to enforce noise ordinances or arrest disruptive protesters amounts to neglect of duty, especially for disabled individuals most affected.