Trump Plans Visit to Survey California Fire Damage During First Week Back

President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to visit California during his first week back in office to survey the devastating wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Trump told NBC News he planned to visit earlier but chose to wait until he was officially sworn in as president.

“I was going to go, actually yesterday,” Trump said on Saturday, “but I thought it would be better if I went as president. It’s a little bit more appropriate, I suspect.”

The fires, including the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, have scorched over 37,000 acres combined, leaving 27 people dead and 31 missing. Containment efforts are ongoing, with the Palisades Fire only 52% contained and the Eaton Fire at 81%.

Trump has been sharply critical of California’s Democratic leadership, blaming Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for what he described as failed policies exacerbating the crisis.

“One of the best and most beautiful parts of the United States of America is burning down to the ground,” Trump posted on Truth Social earlier this month. “It’s ashes, and Gavin Newscum should resign. This is all his fault!!!”

Trump has zeroed in on California’s controversial water policies, accusing Newsom of prioritizing environmental agendas over human lives and infrastructure.

“Governor Gavin Newscum refused to sign the water restoration declaration put before him,” Trump wrote. “It would have allowed millions of gallons of water, from excess rain and snowmelt from the North, to flow daily into many parts of California, including the areas that are currently burning in a virtually apocalyptic way.”

Newsom’s decision to limit water use in an effort to protect the delta smelt, a small fish species, has drawn ire from Trump and other critics, who argue the policy has worsened water shortages for firefighters and residents alike.

“Now the ultimate price is being paid,” Trump continued. “On top of it all, no water for fire hydrants, not firefighting planes. A true disaster!”

Trump’s visit underscores his commitment to addressing California’s wildfire crisis head-on. With accusations of mismanagement flying and communities struggling to recover, the incoming president’s focus on cutting through bureaucratic red tape and restoring critical resources could provide much-needed relief.

As Trump prepares to take office, his fiery rhetoric and decisive plans to tackle California’s challenges highlight a stark contrast to the current Democratic leadership. His upcoming visit signals that change is on the horizon for a state in dire need of leadership and reform.

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