"Protests Erupt as Portland Clears Homeless Encampments Amidst Tensions"
Portland officials began enforcing a no camping policy, leading to the dismantling of a large homeless encampment under the Casco Bay Bridge. Protesters criticized the move as inhumane, arguing it could lead to deaths from exposure or lack of resources. The city argues the encampments are unsafe and unsanitary, and has made efforts to provide alternative shelter options, though some barriers to shelter use remain. The mayor contends that inaction would also result in criticism due to potential deaths from exposure or overdoses.