Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley attempted to tour an immigration detention center for undocumented children on Sunday, June 3, 2018, but was denied access. The police were also called. This center is one of 27 different immigration facilities for children run by Southwest Key Programs, a private, nonprofit organization. After the event, Merkley said, "I think it's unacceptable that a member of Congress is not being admitted to see what is happening to children whose families are applying for asylum. I decided to come here, go up to the door, and ask to be let in." He had previously been in touch with the facility and announced his intention to visit. The center is in a former Walmart building, where the windows are blacked out and the doors are locked. ... Read more