Noem asks Hegseth to exceed Trump’s order and force the military to arrest LA citizens to protect ICE agents
Noem wanted US military to help arrest LA protesters, letter says
- DHS chief Kristi Noem sent a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth requesting the use of US troops to detain and arrest protesters in Los Angeles, baselessly accusing some of being part of “foreign terrorist organizations.”
- Noem's request was made prior to a meeting with Donald Trump and other officials concerning demonstrations in Los Angeles, which have grown sporadically violent following ICE raids.
- A DHS spokesperson indicated that Noem's requests were not fulfilled, as US troops do not have constitutional authority to make arrests.
- City officials, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, have condemned the Trump administration’s response to the unrest, while also vowing to hold accountable protesters who commit criminal acts.
- Trump's critics argue that his decision to lean on the military to suppress dissent in Los Angeles is a sign of authoritarianism.