Los Angeles: President Donald Trump landed at LAX to assess wildfire damage and discuss recovery efforts with Governor Gavin Newsom.
The governor greeted Trump warmly on the tarmac as First Lady Melania Trump joined them.
Both leaders exchanged respectful remarks, despite recent disagreements over wildfire management and federal aid discussions.
Trump commented on the destruction, saying, “It’s like you got hit by a bomb.”
Newsom Thanks Trump for Visiting
Newsom expressed gratitude to Trump, highlighting the importance of federal support for recovery efforts across California.
“It means so much to everyone,” said Newsom, urging for ongoing collaboration during this crisis.
The governor reminded Trump of past cooperation during the Covid pandemic, emphasizing the need for partnership now.
“I trust we can work together for a fast recovery,” Newsom added in his appeal.
Previous Comments Spark Controversy
Trump recently criticized California, claiming water mismanagement hampered firefighting due to protections for the smelt fish.
The smelt, found in Northern California, has become a controversial symbol in Trump’s environmental policy disputes.
Experts dismissed Trump’s claim that LA’s water issues caused difficulties in controlling the fires.
Additionally, Trump falsely stated during his inauguration that LA fires were burning “without any effective response.”
Executive Actions and Federal Aid
Trump signed an order redirecting water resources, framing it as prioritizing people over environmental considerations.
This executive action has stirred debate, with critics questioning its relevance to combating wildfires.
While observing Hurricane Helene’s impact in North Carolina, Trump tied federal aid to meeting unspecified political goals.
He hinted that California’s recovery funds might depend on agreeing to future political or administrative conditions.
