President Donald Trump reiterated the potential danger of Iranian missiles targeting Los Angeles or San Diego, a day after the White House clarified his previous statements. During a rally in San Antonio, Texas, Trump said, “You want to see a horror show? Let them hit San Diego. Let them hit Los Angeles.” His comments were in defense of his stance on the conflict with Iran.
Earlier in Nebraska, Trump suggested the hypothetical destruction of Californian cities, indicating this as a minimal consequence. He stated, “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.”
California leaders quickly condemned Trump’s remarks. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass criticized Trump on X, expressing concern about the potential risk to the city. “The President of the United States suggested that a foreign government attack Los Angeles,” she wrote, highlighting the duty of the president to protect the nation.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria responded similarly, insisting that their city is not “collateral damage” and should not be considered expendable.
Governor Gavin Newsom also voiced disapproval, calling Trump’s comments “dangerous” and possibly “treasonous.” He emphasized the vulnerability this statement might create for California’s cities and naval bases. In reaction, Newsom requested that the State Threat Assessment Center monitor any potential threats that might emerge from the President’s statements.
The STAC is responsible for threat analysis and intelligence sharing among California’s safety agencies. Despite Newsom’s request, there has been no change in the threat level for the state.
The White House defended Trump’s statements. Communications Director Steven Cheung claimed Trump was underscoring the hypothetical threat to U.S. cities had nuclear Iran not been checked, dismissing media reactions as exaggerated.
At the San Antonio rally, Trump reassured the audience that the U.S. would not permit such an attack. “We protect our cities. We protect our country,” he affirmed.
Newsom continued to challenge Trump’s rhetoric on X, accusing him of fearmongering to win support for MAGA candidates. Newsom’s office reiterated the abnormality of advocating for an attack on millions of U.S. residents.
Experts, including Sam Lair from the Foreign Policy Research Institute, have stated that Iran lacks missile capability to reach the U.S. mainland. Iran can only develop missiles with a maximum range of 1,200 miles, far less than the 5,600 to 7,500 miles required to target Los Angeles and San Diego.
Trump’s speech faced interruptions from protesters, as reported by ABC News, during his campaign for Senate candidate Ken Paxton.
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