The Trump administration took a stance on Friday directing federal agencies to disregard new laws in California that ban law enforcement from concealing their identities with masks.
Last Saturday, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the legislation, set to take effect on January 1. The law targets local, state, and federal officials by making it a misdemeanor for them to cover their faces and imposes civil penalties for such actions related to “tort.”
Bill Essayri, a U.S. attorney for the Central District of California, criticized Newsom’s actions, stating, “Governor Newsom seems to misunderstand his responsibilities under the U.S. Constitution.” He emphasized that Newsom governs California, rather than federal agencies, and reminded him to consider the Supremacy Clause.
He declared that California’s law regarding masked federal agents is unconstitutional because states cannot obstruct federal law enforcement. Essayri instructed federal agencies to adhere to federal laws and policies, disregarding state mandates. He noted that any attempts to hinder operation would be prosecuted by his office.
Efforts to reach Newsom’s office for a response were made.
The Department of Homeland Security also expressed its dissent regarding Newsom’s legislation on social media on Monday.
Conflicts arose between Trump officials and California newspapers when the president deployed National Guard troops and Marines to quell protests against deportation policies in Los Angeles.
These actions have prompted targeted interventions and arrests across California, raising concerns among local lawmakers about the implications for communities of color regarding the future.
Governor Newsom argued that ICE agents wear masks to evade accountability, suggesting that such concealment undermines transparency and citizens’ rights. He remarked, “Unmarked vehicles, masked individuals, and people who vanish without trace—there’s no legitimate process or rights involved.” He insisted that all citizens, including immigrants, have rights that deserve respect.
Newsom emphasized the importance of standing up against such measures, stating, “This is disgraceful. This is an outrage.”
