Trump orders strict federal response to protests, limits intervention to requests

President of the United States Donald Trump issued a statement instructing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem that federal forces will not intervene in protests or unrest in Democratic-run cities unless officially requested.

Trump emphasized that federal authorities will firmly protect all federal buildings against individuals he described as “lunatics, agitators, and insurrectionists,” directing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol to act decisively to safeguard government property.

He warned that any attacks on law enforcement—including spitting, assaulting officers, or throwing objects at vehicles—would face consequences “equal to or harsher than the offense.”

The President stressed that protecting federal buildings and parks is primarily the responsibility of state and local governments, with federal forces serving only as backup. He cited the recent incident in Eugene, Oregon, where a federal building was heavily damaged while local police reportedly did not intervene.

Trump added that if local authorities are unable to control unrest, federal forces, including the military if necessary, will respond immediately- but only upon request, with officials required to use the word “please.”

Concluding his statement, Trump reiterated that his administration is committed to border security, national security, and law and order, saying this reflects the priorities on which he was elected.