Trump: Feds won't intervene during protests in Democratic-led cities unless asked to do so
WILL WEISSERT
Associated Press
Updated
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From left, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent speaks as Attorney General Pam Bondi, Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem listen during a cabinet meeting at the White House, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Evan Vucci
People gather for a protest outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Alex Brandon
Activists gather in protest to light candles on frozen Lake Nokomis, spelling, "Ice Out" on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump said Saturday that he instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests occurring in cities led by Democrats unless local authorities ask for federal help amid mounting criticism of his administration's immigration crackdown.
From left, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent speaks as Attorney General Pam Bondi, Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem listen during a cabinet meeting at the White House, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Activists gather in protest to light candles on frozen Lake Nokomis, spelling, "Ice Out" on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)