Portland city commissioner walks back claim that cops, not protesters, are setting fires

The Portland city commissioner has walked back a claim that it was police, not protesters, who were responsible for fires during riots in the city -- apologizing after the Portland police challenged the claim.

“I want people to know that I do not believe there’s any protesters in Portland that are setting fires, that are creating crisis. I absolutely believe it’s police action, and they’re sending saboteurs and provocateurs into peaceful crowds so they justify their inhumane treatment of people who are standing up for their rights,” Jo Ann Hardesty had said Wednesday at a national briefing, according to The Oregonian.

Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley reportedly spoke before her. Merkley has not responded to a request for comment from Fox News on the city commissioner's remarks. Fox News also reached out to fellow Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden, also a Democrat, for comment but has not heard back.

Portland has faced weeks of rioting since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25. In July, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) sent law enforcement in to protect federal monuments and property -- in particular the Hatfield Courthouse. Some local politicians and officials have accused DHS of escalating the situation and of heavy-handed tactics.