Did Trump blame California leadership for the LA wildfire crisis?

Trump visits wildfire-hit Los Angeles, criticizes state leadership, and hints FEMA aid could come with conditions.

President Donald Trump visited Los Angeles on Friday to assess the wildfire damage devastating the region. 

Accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, key advisers, and Hollywood producer Brett Ratner, Trump met with California Governor Gavin Newsom upon landing. Despite their history of public clashes, the two leaders struck a cooperative tone.

Trump described the wildfire destruction as resembling a city "hit by a bomb" and reiterated his criticism of California's environmental and water policies. “The fires could have been put out,” he said, blaming restrictions on water access meant to protect the endangered Delta smelt. He suggested withholding federal aid unless California implements voter ID laws and reforms its water policies.

Newsom thanked Trump for visiting and acknowledged the need for federal support, referencing previous collaboration during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re going to need your support,” Newsom stated.

Trump has criticized FEMA’s handling of disaster relief, proposing a shift toward state-led responses. “Rather than going through FEMA, it will go through us,” he told reporters, signaling possible changes to federal disaster management.

This visit marks Trump’s first presidential trip of his second term. Earlier, he toured hurricane-hit North Carolina and later plans to visit Nevada. Political motives are evident in his travel itinerary, as Trump seeks to thank supporters and underscore issues tied to his administration’s policies.

The ongoing wildfires, compounded by political disputes over water policy and disaster relief, continue to challenge California’s recovery efforts. Meanwhile, Trump promises swift federal action, though with potential strings attached.