President’s Stance on Federal Aid Amid Civil Unrest

On January 31, 2026, President Donald Trump announced that he has instructed the Department of Homeland Security to refrain from sending federal aid to “poorly run” liberal cities experiencing widespread riots and protests unless those cities specifically request help.

In a post on Truth Social, he stated, “I have directed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem that under no circumstances will we join the Democratic Party in various poorly run cities regarding protests and riots unless they ask us for help.”

Trump assured that, despite his reluctance to involve federal resources, measures would be taken to protect federal buildings from potential attacks.

“But we’re going to provide very strong security for any and all federal buildings that are being attacked by these highly paid lunatics, agitators, and insurrectionists,” he said.

He also warned that those who harm police officers or vandalize federal property will face serious repercussions.

“You won’t spit in our officers’ faces, you won’t punch or kick their car headlights, you won’t throw rocks and bricks at our cars or our Patriot fighters. If they do, those people will suffer the same or worse consequences.”

The president highlighted the importance of local and state officials in maintaining order.

“You have to protect your state and local property, and it’s also your duty to protect federal property, buildings, parks and everything else,” he emphasized.

Reflecting on federal involvement during the Los Angeles riots last year, Trump encouraged local leaders not to hesitate in seeking assistance.

“When local governments are unable to deal with insurrectionists, agitators, and anarchists, we immediately go to the location where such assistance is requested,” he noted.

The June 2025 riots in Los Angeles were triggered by an ICE raid, resulting in clashes with police, National Guard deployment, and a curfew in the area. These events have been common across the nation, often sparked by the administration’s deportation policies, intertwining peaceful protests with violent actions like arson and vandalism.

Trump concluded by reiterating his commitment to support formal requests for help from local or state officials.

“To all the local governments, governors and mayors who have complaints, let us know when you’re ready. We’ll be there. But first we have to say ‘please,'” he stated.