Portland, Oregon – Protests outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Portland continue to draw attention, with recent observations highlighting an unusual element: participants in cosplay attire. Journalist Jonathan Choe recently commented on the scene, noting the presence of costumed individuals amidst the ongoing demonstrations.
"Everyone is in cosplay outfits this evening outside the Portland ICE facility. The absurdity of it all. But I do prefer Elmo over Antifa," Choe stated in a tweet. This observation aligns with previous reports, including an incident on June 14, 2025, where a person in a hot dog costume was seen during a protest at the same location, underscoring the diverse and sometimes unconventional nature of the demonstrations.
The Portland ICE facility has been a focal point for sustained protests throughout June and July 2025, often marked by intense clashes between demonstrators and federal officers. Reports indicate frequent declarations of riots, numerous arrests, and the deployment of crowd control measures by authorities. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has frequently described the area as being "under siege" by "anarchist and rioters."
Antifa-affiliated groups have been consistently linked to these protests, with federal authorities citing their involvement in organizing, doxing ICE agents, and engaging in violent confrontations. Multiple individuals have faced federal charges for offenses including assault on federal officers, arson, and property damage in connection with the demonstrations. The DHS has specifically named groups like "Rose City Counter-Info" for publishing personal information of ICE officers.
Jonathan Choe, a journalist and Senior Fellow with the Discovery Institute's Center on Wealth and Poverty, has a history of reporting on controversial social issues and activist groups, including Antifa. His commentary often reflects a critical perspective on such movements, providing context for his expressed preference in the tweet. The blend of serious protest and unexpected elements like cosplay underscores the complex and evolving nature of the ongoing demonstrations in Portland.