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In a significant meeting at the Oval Office, California Governor Gavin Newsom urged President Donald Trump for enhanced federal support necessary for the recovery efforts in Los Angeles County following a series of catastrophic wildfires earlier in January.
“We are approaching the month mark since the tragic wildfires swept through Southern California. Our focus remains on eliminating bureaucratic obstacles to expedite recovery and clean-up operations while ensuring that rebuilding efforts are carried out swiftly,” Governor Newsom conveyed in a statement. “We are committed to bipartisan collaboration to provide support and resources crucial for the survivors. I appreciate President Trump’s visit to our affected communities and our productive discussion today aimed at aiding those impacted.”
This meeting followed two prior discussions held on Capitol Hill. Newsom characterized his engagement with Trump in the White House as “highly productive,” emphasizing the importance of “unconditional disaster aid” for those affected by the wildfires, according to a release from his office.
President Trump visited Los Angeles earlier to assess the extensive damage caused by the Eaton and Palisades Fires, which resulted in over 20 fatalities and the destruction of thousands of homes within the county. During this visit, Newsom articulated the urgent need for federal assistance to support families initiating the rebuilding process.
In his statement, Newsom expressed gratitude towards the Trump Administration for its early assistance, highlighting the pivotal role of EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, who mobilized more than 1,000 personnel for debris removal operations.
On Capitol Hill, Newsom met with the California Congressional Delegation, which included Representatives Ken Calvert, Judy Chu, Doug LaMalfa, Brad Sherman, and George Whitesides, to discuss the imperative nature of securing additional federal disaster relief for wildfire-affected residents. Following this, he continued discussions with members of the Senate, including California Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, along with New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich, Georgia Senator Rev. Raphael Warnock, and Washington Senator Patty Murray, further advocating for critical federal support.
Governor Newsom was accompanied by Wade Crowfoot, the Secretary of the California Natural Resources Agency, during these pivotal meetings.
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