Trump says Democratic cities must say “please” to get federal help during protests

President Trump said the federal government will not intervene in protests or unrest in Democratic-led cities unless state or local officials formally request assistance, saying such requests must explicitly include the word “please.”

“I have instructed Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, that under no circumstances are we going to participate in various poorly run Democrat Cities with regard to their Protests and/or Riots unless, and until, they ask us for help,” Trump said in a social media post Saturday.

Trump said that federal authorities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol, would still act forcefully to protect courthouses, federal buildings, parks, and other federal property.

Trump cited an incident late Friday in Eugene, Oregon, saying protesters broke into a federal building and caused damage, and criticized local police for failing to intervene.

“Therefore, to all complaining Local Governments, Governors, and Mayors, let us know when you are ready, and we will be there — But, before we do so, you must use the word, “PLEASE,” Trump said.

“Remember that I stated, in the strongest of language, to BEWARE — ICE, Border Patrol or, if necessary, our Military, will be extremely powerful and tough in the protection of our Federal Property,” Trump added. “We will not allow our Courthouses, Federal Buildings, or anything else under our protection, to be damaged in any way, shape, or form.”

The statement comes as protests have spread following the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti in separate incidents this month involving ICE and Border Patrol in Minneapolis, with “ICE OUT” demonstrations planned nationwide through the weekend.