President Donald Trump criticized anti-ICE protesters in Los Angeles, labeling them “animals” for their act of burning the American flag during their demonstration against federal deportation efforts.
During remarks made at Fort Bragg, Trump mentioned the potential for enforcing criminal penalties, including a year-long prison sentence, for those who burn the flag. “These are animals, but they proudly carry flags of other countries,” he noted, emphasizing that they don’t respect the American flag, rather they “just burn them.” He asked the crowd gathered—composed of service members, veterans, and their families—if they had witnessed similar flag burnings.
He insisted, “Those who burn the American flag should go to prison for a year. We’ll see if we can do that. We’re working with some of your senators.”
Trump’s visit to Fort Bragg coincided with his decision to deploy over 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles in response to escalating violence during immigration protests. Critics, including California’s Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, have condemned this move as an overreach by federal authorities.
In a podcast interview, Trump reiterated his tough stance on flag burning, asserting, “If you burn the American flag… I think you’ll go to prison for a year. It’s just automatic.” He feels strongly about enforcing these potential penalties.
Moreover, Trump indicated that he might pursue actions against governors who are allegedly obstructing federal operations in Los Angeles, especially in light of Newsom’s recent lawsuit against his administration asserting that Trump violated California’s rights.
Newsom has openly challenged Trump, saying, “Come after me. Arrest me. Let’s start over with the tough guy.” In his comments at Fort Bragg, Trump also expressed that his administration was investigating the funding sources behind the protests, showing particular interest in individuals like Pam Bondi.
Meanwhile, Attorney General Bondy stated that the Department of Justice is currently dealing with “nine open cases” regarding the ongoing protests, adding, “Like President Trump said, you’ve had a conflict. Please prepare.”
