PORTLAND Oregon (KPTV) – Dozens of protesters gathered in Pioneer Courthouse Square for what appeared to be a peaceful rally.

While many were there for causes such as the Free Gaza Movement, the turning point of the protest appeared to be the outcome of Tuesday’s presidential election.

“Donald Trump won the election yesterday, so we are here to say no to his presence. To say no to his reactionary right-wing policies and also to demand that he end the genocide in Gaza,” says Holly Brown of the socialist organization Freedom Road.

“It was demotivating to see what happened with the election, but I can say it lit a fire in people,” said a protester named Moth.

Several PPB cycling teams patrolled the rally from a distance. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police also monitored the protest.

SEE ALSO:

Before the election, Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day said he would maximize resources for election week.

The National Guard was on standby for possible outbreaks of violence during election week.

Windows and doors of downtown businesses surrounding Pioneer Courthouse Square remain closed as a precaution, but Wednesday night’s protest was mostly peaceful.

“I felt like we were able to give people a space to express their beliefs and feel comfortable doing so,” Brown said.

A smaller, slightly rowdier group showed up in the square later that night. Police monitored their protest and will continue to closely monitor post-election protests.

Copyright 2024 KPTV-KPDX. All rights reserved.