Trump remarks that Iran could "take out" Los Angeles, San Diego draw backlash
Also reported by The Hill
Summary
President Donald Trump made remarks at a rally that were widely interpreted as inviting Iran to attack the U.S. cities of Los Angeles and San Diego. California leaders strongly criticized the comments, while the White House said Trump’s intention was to explain why the U.S. is fighting Iran to prevent such attacks.Key Facts
- President Trump said, "Let them take out Los Angeles. Let them take out San Diego," during a rally about Iran.
- California leaders, including Governor Gavin Newsom and mayors of San Diego and Los Angeles, condemned the statement.
- The White House said Trump meant that the U.S. is fighting to stop Iran from having the power to attack those cities.
- Trump argued that the economic pain from the war was a small price to pay for national security.
- San Diego has a large military presence, with over 136,000 active military and civilians working on bases.
- Local leaders emphasized San Diego’s identity as a military town and condemned the president’s words.
- Analysts were mixed on whether Trump’s language was unclear or directly harmful.
- The White House pointed to comments from the Communications Director clarifying Trump’s message.
