WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has put California’s federal disaster aid at risk, threatening to withhold support for wildfire-affected Los Angeles unless state officials alter their water management policies. In a recent interview with Fox News, Trump reiterated unfounded allegations that fish conservation initiatives in northern California are contributing to the depletion of fire hydrants in urban areas. He placed accountability for the difficulties faced by Los Angeles in controlling the fierce fires on Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, a political rival who has advocated for collaboration and mutual respect in combating the wildfires.
During his conversation with Fox’s Sean Hannity, Trump expressed his belief that California should not receive any federal assistance until they address their water management issues, stating, “I don’t think we should give California anything until they let the water run down.” This statement comes as he prepares for the initial presidential trip of his second term; he is scheduled to visit Southern California and western North Carolina, which is just starting to recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene that struck over three months prior.
In the same interview, Trump highlighted the need for reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), remarking that the agency “is getting in the way of everything.” He conveyed a preference for states to manage their own crises, without providing specifics about his proposed changes to FEMA, though he mentioned it would be a focal point of discussion moving forward.
On the Government’s front, Trump held discussions on Wednesday with a select group of vulnerable House Republicans as the party wrestles with the implementation of promised tax cuts and other key priorities. This meeting occurred amid a flurry of activity aimed at furthering other administration priorities in the early days of his second term. Concurrently, about 160 personnel from the National Security Council were reassigned as their alignment with Trump’s agenda is under review. The Pentagon has initiated the deployment of 1,500 active-duty troops to bolster border security measures.
“The American people have been waiting for such a time as this,” remarked Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, emphasizing the urgency of the administration’s initiatives. Additionally, Stephen Miller, a senior advisor to Trump, met with Senate Republicans to provide updates regarding deportations and the reinstatement of Title 42, which was enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic to limit border crossings.
Despite the Republican hold on the presidency and both legislative chambers, a narrow majority in Congress has resulted in disputes about the path forward on numerous critical issues. Trump’s meeting with House Republicans coincided with private “listening sessions” led by Speaker Mike Johnson, who will face the challenge of uniting the conference amid ongoing negotiations. Trump has also been hosting dinners with GOP lawmakers at Mar-a-Lago and plans to speak at their private retreat next week in Doral, Florida, where he owns a resort.
“We’re working very closely in close coordination with the White House because this is an America First agenda that requires collaboration between both branches of government,” Johnson stated during a press conference.
Furthermore, Trump announced his choices for U.S. Secret Service director and ambassador to the European Union. He is nominating Andrew Puzder, a former fast food executive, for the EU position, alongside Sean Curran for the role as head of the U.S. Secret Service. Puzder previously served as CEO of CKE Restaurants but withdrew from a cabinet nomination in Trump’s first term amid scrutiny over tax issues related to an unauthorized former housekeeper. Curran gained recognition for his rapid response during an assassination attempt against Trump in 2016, showcasing his leadership during critical security operations.
On social media, Trump commended Curran for his exemplary bravery during the assassination attempt, praising him as a capable leader in operational security, particularly for significant events involving national and international complexity. Furthermore, Trump in the interview alluded to a desire for investigations into former President Joe Biden, emphasizing the challenges he himself faced with legal issues, including felony convictions and charges related to efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. “It’s really hard to say that they shouldn’t have to go through it also,” he asserted.
