Swalwell Promises to Revoke Licenses of Federal Agents Wearing Masks if Elected Governor

California Representative Eric Swalwell, who entered the Democratic gubernatorial primary last November, made a bold promise during a recent interview. He stated that if he wins the governorship, he plans to revoke driver’s licenses from federal immigration officers who wear masks during operations in California.

Current Governor Gavin Newsom is set to leave office in early January 2027.

In his conversation with MS NOW, Swalwell asserted that he would utilize the state’s control over the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to strip driver’s licenses from ICE officers who choose to conceal their identities while enforcing immigration laws.

He also mentioned that these officers could face various legal charges, including kidnapping and assault, pushing the narrative that such federal actions need to be countered. He argued that wearing masks enables ‘unaccountable’ behavior and insisted that officers should be recognizable at all times.

“If the Governor has the ability to issue driver’s licenses to people in California, if you’re going to wear a mask and not identify yourself, you’re not going to be eligible to drive a vehicle in California,” Swalwell explained.

Swalwell’s comments sparked considerable backlash, especially from conservatives who viewed his promise as a direct assault on federal law enforcement. They argued it signals a preference for illegal immigrants over the safety of law enforcement personnel.

ICE agents often wear masks to safeguard themselves and their families from harassment and threats, particularly from progressive activists. Swalwell’s proposal raises concerns around the Supremacy Clause, suggesting potential conflicts with federal law enforcement operations.

The Trump administration previously filed a lawsuit through the DOJ and DHS, claiming California’s ban on ICE agents wearing masks is unconstitutional. Federal officials have expressed their intent to disregard the law as it currently stands.

Recently, California officials decided to pause enforcement of this measure while awaiting a court ruling. A U.S. District Judge is set to hear the case on January 12.

Responding to a statement from Senator Scott Wiener, who claimed California law enforcement can no longer hide behind face coverings, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli reminded him that the state lacks jurisdiction over federal agents.

“This isn’t true. California has no authority to regulate federal agents. This state law violates the federal Supremacy Clause. We have asked a federal judge to strike it down… while California has agreed to put the law on hold,” Essayli stated.

Swalwell’s recent remarks don’t stand alone; he has continuously sought to discredit masked enforcement actions, likening them to the actions of criminals. His approach seems to be intertwining a safety debate with his campaign, focusing on championing the rights of undocumented individuals while challenging federal power.

His attempts to link anonymity with misconduct give the impression that he is weaponizing the issue for his gubernatorial ambitions, making it a pivotal part of his campaign platform.