Federal Official Disregards California’s New ICE Mask Law
Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli has issued a directive to federal agencies to ignore California’s recent legislation mandating that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents remove their masks during operations. Citing the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution, Essayli argues that California Governor Gavin Newsom lacks the authority to dictate federal law enforcement practices.
The newly enacted law, which Newsom signed just days ago, explicitly prohibits federal agents from wearing masks in California. The rationale presented is a push for accountability, but many view it as a strategic move aimed at obstructing ICE’s immigration enforcement efforts.
In a flourish of defiance, Newsom declared during his announcement of the bill, “I’ll be signing a bill, first in the nation, saying, enough. ICE, unmask. What are you afraid of?”
Meanwhile, the environment surrounding ICE has become increasingly perilous. In 2025, radical activists have ramped up attacks and doxing campaigns against federal agents, escalating tensions significantly. This week, a tragic sniper assault on an ICE facility in Dallas resulted in the death of one detainee and left two others critically injured. Disturbingly, the assailant’s shell casings bore anti-ICE inscriptions.
Doxing efforts affiliated with Antifa have intensified, exposing ICE officers and their families to severe risks. In Portland, extreme leftist publications, including “Rose City Counter-Info” and “The Crustian Daily,” have publicly disclosed the identities, photographs, and home addresses of ICE agents.
Data from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) indicates an alarming 1,000% increase in assaults on ICE personnel, attributing this surge to incendiary language from Democratic leaders and radical left groups that have labeled ICE agents as “Gestapo” and “slave patrols.”
Essayli’s memo underscores the federal government’s commitment to conducting operations without interference, ensuring the safety and operational effectiveness of federal agents.
In a post on X, Essayli commented, “Governor Newsom is confused about his role under the U.S. Constitution. He oversees California, not federal agencies. He should review the Supremacy Clause.”
Governor Newsom is confused about his role under the U.S. Constitution. He oversees California, not federal agencies. He should review the Supremacy Clause.
California’s law to “unmask” federal agents is unconstitutional, as the state lacks jurisdiction to interfere with federal… pic.twitter.com/9ZWlFRxHMi
— Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli (@USAttyEssayli) September 26, 2025
“California’s law to ‘unmask’ federal agents is unconstitutional, as the state lacks jurisdiction to interfere with federal law enforcement. I have directed federal agencies to disregard this state law and adhere to federal law and agency policies,” Essayli concluded.
