Washington, DC — President Donald Trump said Saturday that the Department of Homeland Security will not intervene in protests or unrest in Democratic-led cities unless local leaders formally request federal assistance, while still pledging aggressive protection of federal property.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that DHS would stay out of local protest responses unless governors or mayors “ask us for help.” He added that federal authorities, including ICE and Border Patrol, would act forcefully to protect courthouses and other federal buildings, even if local officials do not request intervention.
The president’s comments come as nationwide protests have intensified following the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens in Minnesota during federal immigration enforcement operations earlier this month. Clashes between demonstrators and federal agents have been reported in several cities, including Eugene, Oregon, where police declared a riot after protesters breached a federal building and agents deployed tear gas to repel the crowd.
Trump argued that protecting federal property is primarily a state and local responsibility but warned that federal forces would respond decisively if local authorities fail to do so. He said DHS, Border Patrol, or even the military could be used if necessary, emphasizing that intervention would be “extremely powerful and tough.”
The statement followed a federal judge’s decision rejecting Minnesota’s attempt to block the surge of federal agents in the state. Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the ruling, while Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said the operation has brought fear and disruption rather than public safety and vowed to continue legal challenges.
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