HUD offices forced to close as Democrat-run cities erupt in anti-ICE violence
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) field offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City have temporarily closed their doors due to violence stemming from anti-ICE riots and protests. HUD confirmed this to Fox News Digital on Tuesday. The closures come just weeks after Democrats like California Rep. Maxine Waters and Michigan Rep. Rashida Tlaib claimed that HUD field offices would permanently close due to Department of Government Efficiency efforts.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner debunked these claims, calling them “fake news” and criticizing Democrats for “encouraging riots” that led to the temporary shuttering of the three offices. Turner emphasized that HUD remains committed to serving communities amidst the violence while prioritizing safety and security.
The riots in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City have been fueled by anti-ICE sentiments and protests. Los Angeles has been particularly affected, with widespread riots erupting since federal law enforcement officials conducted immigration raids as part of President Donald Trump’s campaign promise to deport illegal immigrants who entered the country under the Biden administration.
Images obtained by Fox News Digital show graffiti covering a federal building in downtown Los Angeles, where a HUD field office is located. Despite media reports earlier in 2025 suggesting that HUD planned to close numerous field offices nationwide, Turner clarified that not a single field office has been closed.
In March, Waters led a group of Democrat lawmakers and protesters in an attempt to deliver a protest letter to Turner at HUD headquarters. While they were allowed in, they did not meet with Turner. Tlaib also joined the group but was unable to enter the building. Waters later sent a letter calling for an investigation into alleged plans to close HUD field offices, expressing concern for families and communities that rely on HUD assistance.
The riots in Los Angeles have prompted Trump to deploy National Guard members and Marines to restore order. The violence has included looting, setting cars on fire, and targeting federal law enforcement officials. Trump took to social media to defend his decision to deploy troops, stating that it prevented the city from burning to the ground.
As the situation unfolds, it is essential for HUD to navigate the challenges posed by the violence in these cities and continue to support communities in need. The temporary closures of the field offices highlight the importance of addressing the underlying issues fueling the protests while ensuring the safety of HUD staff and the communities they serve.
