US President Donald Trump ordered law enforcement to arrest protesters wearing masks as tensions rose during large demonstrations in Los Angeles. The protests oppose aggressive immigration enforcement and ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants.
On Sunday, Trump banned the use of masks at protests and praised the National Guard—a state-controlled reserve force—for managing two days of violence and unrest in the city.
Trump posted on his Truth Social that “from now on, MASK WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to be worn at protests,” though it’s unclear if the federal government has the authority to make such a decree. He Later posted , ARREST THE PEOPLE IN FACE MASKS, NOW.”
Protesters are using masks to avoid facial recognition and shield themselves from smoke and police munitions. Trump’s ban has triggered criticism, with many saying it violates free speech and disability rights.
California Governor Gavin Newsom called Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to L.A. unlawful and rejected his threat to send in Marines. He said protests were under LAPD control and urged: “Remain peaceful. Don’t fall into the trap that extremists are hoping for.”
National Guard troops were stationed near federal buildings as protests in Los Angeles turned violent. Demonstrators set cars on fire and clashed with security forces amid ongoing federal immigration raids.
Dozens were detained in Los Angeles for “immigration violations” as part of nationwide raids. ICE reported arresting 2,000 undocumented individuals daily this week, including 118 in the L.A. area.
The situation remains tense in LA as the mask ban and aggressive immigration enforcement continue to spark anger and resistance from protesters.
