Unbelievable. Per U.S.Senator Merkley, the federal govt staged a FAKE RIOT a few nights ago in Portland. They marched what appeared to be peaceful protesters down a street — then unleashed pepper balls, tear gas, and flash-bangs that sounded like gunfire, while cameras rolled. 🎥💥

All to paint a picture of chaos and justify invoking the Insurrection Act. This is an outrageous abuse of power. #press