Trump Challenges LA Mayor Bass on Wildfire Response: “Use Emergency Powers”

President Donald Trump criticized Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass during a wildfire briefing, urging her to use emergency powers to expedite recovery efforts. Trump visited Los Angeles to assess the devastating damage caused by wildfires, estimated to cost $250 billion.

At a roundtable discussion, Trump demanded that residents be allowed to return to their properties immediately to begin rebuilding.

“You have emergency powers, just like I do, and I’m exercising my emergency powers. You have to exercise them also,” Trump told Bass.

Mayor Bass initially claimed residents could return Friday night but later extended the timeline to a week, sparking frustration among locals. Many residents have protested the delays, citing bureaucratic obstacles like permits taking up to 18 months. For more updates check our Youtube channel.

Trump pledged to remove federal barriers to speed up the recovery process. “We’re going to waive all federal permits,” he announced. He also promised to push California officials to follow suit, criticizing environmental regulations that he said hinder reconstruction efforts.

The president blamed Democratic policies for worsening the crisis, pointing to inadequate vegetation clearing and water mismanagement. Trump announced an executive order to redirect water from Northern California to Southern California, aiming to prevent future disasters. “You have so much water. Use it and be happy about it,” he said.

Bass defended her actions, stating, “If individuals want to clear out their property, they can.” However, Trump remained firm in his stance, calling for quicker action. “A week is actually a long time, the way I look at it,” he said, urging her to act swiftly.

The visit highlighted ongoing tensions between Trump’s federal approach and California’s state policies. While pledging full federal support, Trump warned against delays and emphasized the importance of rebuilding quickly for the affected communities.

Read more: California Wildfires Break Out Overnight in San Diego County, Prompting Evacuations.