As fire-ravaged Los Angeles prepares for a visit from President Donald Trump, concerns are mounting over whether the city will receive the federal aid it desperately needs for recovery. Trump is set to visit the devastated region on Friday afternoon, where he will witness firsthand the extensive damage caused by the deadly wildfires—destruction expected to cost billions to repair.
Former President Joe Biden had pledged full federal support for California in his final days in office, providing 180 days of disaster relief funding. However, Trump’s history of contentious remarks about California’s leadership has left many worried that he may cut off or delay aid.
Trump's Criticism of California
Even as fires continued to spread, Trump reignited his long-standing feud with California Governor Gavin Newsom, blaming the state’s water management policies for the disaster.
"I don't think we should give California anything until they let the water run down," Trump said earlier this week, referring to his debunked claim that water is being withheld from certain areas of the state.
His threats to withhold federal funding have left many fire victims in uncertainty. Among them is 59-year-old Sebastian Harrison, a former actor who lost his uninsured Malibu home. Unable to afford insurance premiums of $40,000 a year, he now fears that without government assistance, rebuilding his life may be impossible.
Racing Against Time
Local officials are scrambling to secure federal funds before Trump assumes office. A source familiar with the situation told AFP that authorities are pushing to get the money released before the administration changes, fearing Trump might not honor the financial commitments made under Biden.
However, some believe that political realities may force Trump to support the region. While areas like Altadena lean Democratic, affluent neighborhoods such as Pacific Palisades—home to wealthy businesspeople and Republican donors—were also heavily affected by the fires.
"Trump may think of Altadena as a bunch of low-life Democrats, but Pacific Palisades is a different story," the source noted. "That's where he and other Republicans go when they need to raise money in Los Angeles."
Legal Battle Looms
Governor Newsom, despite his clashes with Trump, has taken a conciliatory tone, urging federal cooperation in a letter to Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson.
"Historically, federal disaster aid has been provided without conditions, recognizing that political calculations or regional divides should not encumber relief efforts," he wrote.
However, if the White House refuses to provide the necessary aid, California officials are prepared to take legal action.
State Attorney General Rob Bonta condemned any attempts to politicize the disaster, warning that the state is ready to fight for its residents.
"We have every expectation that federal action will be taken to support California and the hardworking Californians whose lives and livelihoods are at risk," Bonta said. "If the president violates the law, we will not hesitate to act."
As Trump’s visit approaches, the battle over disaster relief is shaping up to be yet another flashpoint in the fraught relationship between California and the federal government.