Joe Biden and Kamala Harris visit wildfire victims in California after Trump’s inauguration

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris visited California to support fire victims following Trump's inauguration.

Following Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris made their way to Southern California for a series of engagements aimed at supporting those affected by recent fires and recognizing the heroic efforts of first responders.

Harris, a California native, began her visit with a stop at Gordy’s Garage in Altadena, where a World Central Kitchen site had been set up to assist fire victims. Harris, joined by her husband, former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, met with individuals who had lost their homes in the disaster. She expressed gratitude for the community's resilience, especially the volunteers who, despite their own losses, continued to help others. Jason Collins, Chief Relief Officer at World Central Kitchen, thanked Harris for her ongoing support of the community.

Photo: AFP

From there, Harris visited Fire Station 12, where she met with L.A. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone and firefighters who had been on the front lines of the Eaton Fire. Harris praised their dedication, remarking, "Moments of crisis really do reveal the heroes among us."

Photo: World Central Kitchen

This visit was personal for Harris, whose home in Brentwood had been under a mandatory evacuation order until recently. "We're blessed. Our home is standing," she said, reflecting on the impact the fires had on her community.

Meanwhile, President Biden traveled to Santa Ynez, California, where he spoke to staffers, reaffirming his commitment to public service. "We’re leaving office, but we’re not leaving the fight," Biden said in his remarks. He expressed his gratitude to the team, saying, “It’s been the honor of my life to serve as your president.”

The Biden administration's visit to California highlighted their ongoing support for the communities and first responders dealing with the aftermath of the fires.