Oregon leaders responding to federal officers at Portland protests

He said he refused to answer basic questions about the role of federal officers in Portland.

"What the rules of engagement are, what roles they've been playing on the streets of Portland, who decided what equipment they have or when to use it, they will not answer questions about the level of coordination they've had with Portland Police," Merkley tells KATU News.

He said Deputy Director Derrick Driscoll made clear his officers have full federal authority to protect federal institutions - and to do whatever is needed to accomplish their mission.

Oregon Rep. Suzanne Bonamici also responded Thursday to reports that authorities in unmarked white vans were picking up protesters off the streets.