OIG to review “use of force” against protesters in Portland and D.C.

Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz said Thursday his office will launch an investigation into federal agents’ “use of force” in Portland and the clearing of peaceful protestors in Lafayette Squarein Washington, D.C., including the use of chemical agents.

Why it matters: Demonstrations in Portland against police use of force have continued in the city for more than 50 days. President Trump has threatened to send federal law enforcement into other cities run by Democrats.

The big picture: House Democrats asked the DOJ’s Office of Inspector General to investigate the response of federal law enforcement personnel to ongoing protests in cities across the U.S. Continue reading.