President Donald Trump harshly criticized anti-ICE protesters in Los Angeles, calling them “animals” for carrying foreign flags and burning the American flag during demonstrations against federal deportation efforts.
Speaking at Fort Bragg during the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary event, Trump proposed imposing criminal penalties, including a one-year jail sentence, for flag burning. Addressing service members and veterans, he said, “These are animals, but they proudly carry the flags of other countries. They don’t carry the American flag. They only burn it.” Trump emphasized his intent to push legislation with senators to criminalize flag burning.
His comments come amid controversy over his deployment of more than 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles in response to violent immigration protests—actions criticized by California Governor Gavin Newsom as federal overreach.
Trump reiterated his call for jail time in a recent podcast interview, saying flag burners should “just automatic” get one year in jail.
In addition to targeting protesters, Trump threatened to pursue legal action against Governor Newsom, who filed a lawsuit alleging the president violated California’s constitutional rights by controlling the National Guard. Newsom responded defiantly, daring the administration to arrest him.
Trump also revealed that his administration is investigating the funding behind the protests, with U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stating the Justice Department has “nine open cases” related to the unrest.
Bondi warned protesters with a tough message: “As President Trump said: You spit we hit. Get ready.”
