Portland police chief addresses Election Day security concerns [Video]

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — With just hours until initial election results are revealed, Portland law enforcement is once again addressing concerns of potential civil unrest.

On Tuesday at 11 a.m., Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day held a press conference about Election Day safety precautions.

About a week before polls were set to close — and soon after ballot drop boxes were set on fire in Portland and Vancouver — the chief said city and county officials were “diligently working towards a level of preparation” he hadn’t seen in his more-than-30-year career.

He echoed similar points during the Nov. 5 meeting held at the Central Precinct. According to Day, the bureau has prepared for Election Day since he was appointed as interim chief in September 2023.

He noted the 50-member Rapid Response Teamhas undergone monthly training since it returned earlier this year. PPB has also sent liaison staff to national training and participated in international conferences to learn …