California Leaders Condemn Trump's Comments on Iran Threatening US Cities
BBC News
In Response to Trump's Midterms Rally Remarks
Leaders in California have sharply criticized President Trump following his comments at a midterm election rally in Nebraska. During the event, he suggested that Iran taking out Los Angeles or San Diego would be a small price to keep the world safe amidst ongoing tensions between the US and Iran.
Gavin Newsom, the state governor, described Trump as "deranged and dangerous", while Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles, condemned his threat as encouraging attacks on American lives.
The cities of Los Angeles and San Diego, both major urban centers in southern California, are home to significant US military installations, including Navy ports and Air Force bases.
Newsom shared an article from Los Angeles Times criticizing Trump's remarks, calling them "disgusting and disqualifying". Todd Gloria, Mayor of San Diego, also condemned the comments on X, emphasizing that the city is not collateral damage in this "reckless war talk."
These statements come amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran following the latter's missile strikes on US-allied forces in Iraq. Trump has suggested the conflict is nearing an end, but his comments about California cities being potential targets have raised concerns.
This is not the first time Trump and Newsom have publicly clashed. Their relationship has been strained since Trump visited California in January following wildfires there. Issues like immigration enforcement protests and Newsom's handling of them, as well as his dyslexia, have also been points of contention.