President Trump provoked strong backlash after saying at a Nebraska rally that losing Los Angeles or San Diego would be “a small price to pay” amid Iran-related tensions. California leaders — including Gov. Gavin Newsom, Mayors Todd Gloria and Karen Bass, and Sen. Adam Schiff — condemned the comments as dangerous and demeaning. The remarks have intensified debate over federal deployments in California and could have political consequences as the midterms approach.
Trump Sparks Outrage After Saying Los Angeles, San Diego Could Be ‘A Small Price To Pay’
Trump sparks outrage with remarks about LA, San Diego at rally
President Donald Trump drew swift and widespread condemnation after telling a Nebraska rally crowd that the possible destruction of Los Angeles or San Diego would be “a small price to pay” amid tensions tied to the war with Iran.
Speaking at a midterm-election rally in Grand Island, Nebraska, Trump discussed rising gasoline prices connected to the conflict and urged Americans to accept economic costs. He said:
“They can take out a city. Let ’em take out Los Angeles, let ’em take out San Diego. This is a very small price to pay.”
Trump added the war was nearly over and framed the potential cost as "a small price to pay for keeping the world safe." The comments circulated quickly online and prompted sharp responses from California’s political leaders and local officials.
Why Officials Reacted
Los Angeles and San Diego are the two largest Southern California metropolitan areas, together home to millions of residents as well as major military installations, international trade hubs and critical economic infrastructure. State and city leaders argued the president’s language treated residents as expendable and risked undermining public safety.
Gov. Gavin Newsom tied the remarks to recent federal deployments in California, writing on social media: “After sending the National Guard and Marines to occupy California, Donald Trump is now saying our foreign enemies should ‘take out’ Los Angeles and San Diego. He is deranged and dangerous.”
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria rejected any suggestion the city should be considered collateral damage: “San Diego is not collateral damage. We are not expendable. And we are never a 'small price to pay.' Keep our city out of your reckless war talk.”
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the remarks “dangerous,” warning they could “potentially compromise our safety,” and said the role of a president is to protect Americans, not encourage attacks on American lives. Senator Adam Schiff also criticized the comments, questioning whether the president would be indifferent to an attack on two major U.S. cities.
Political Fallout
The exchange has added to an ongoing debate over federal deployments in California and heightened tensions as the midterm elections approach. The comments are likely to become a focal point in discussions about leadership, national security rhetoric and accountability in public statements by elected officials.
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