Federalized National Guard troops being deployed to Portland have been tasked with helping federal law enforcement defend the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in South Portland, which has been the site of protests since June.

But it remains unclear in what capacity will the troops serve at the facility, including whether they will carry guns. When asked the question, Pentagon officials won’t say.

“Federalized members of the Oregon National Guard are prepared to support U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other U.S. Government personnel who are performing federal functions, including the enforcement of federal law, and to protect federal property in Oregon,” said chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell.

Parnell declined to elaborate. Since the troops have bee

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