Former President Donald Trump has drawn fierce criticism from both Democratic and Republican figures after making controversial statements regarding potential Iranian strikes on California during a campaign rally in Nebraska.
Addressing the crowd about the threat posed by Iran, Trump remarked, “Let them take out Los Angeles, let them take out San Diego…this is a very small price to pay.”
The comments triggered swift pushback from local and state leaders:
California Governor Gavin Newsom labeled the rhetoric hazardous, warning that it effectively places two major U.S. population centers—and a key naval base—in the crosshairs. Newsom instructed the State Threat Assessment Center to remain vigilant against any foreign threats inspired by the statement.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the suggestion, noting that while the city is used to political attacks from Trump, inviting a foreign adversary to target American soil crosses a dangerous line.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria forcefully rejected the idea that his city is disposable, calling on Trump to end his “reckless war talk.”
U.S. Conference of Mayors Executive Director Tom Cochran stated that Trump breached a fundamental boundary, asserting that no commander-in-chief should ever frame a foreign strike on domestic soil as tolerable, regardless of context.
In response to the outcry, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung dismissed the criticism on X, claiming the media’s reaction was exaggerated. Cheung clarified that Trump’s broader point was that U.S. municipalities would remain vulnerable to threats if Iran’s nuclear ambitions are left unchecked.
