Governor Gavin Newsom thanked President Donald Trump on Friday for visiting Southern California to assess the devastation caused by recent wildfires, marking their first in-person encounter since the start of their ongoing online feud over wildfire management.
Trump toured Southern California to survey the damage from the wildfires, which scorched thousands of acres, destroyed over 10,000 buildings in the Los Angeles area, and claimed nearly 30 lives.
During their brief tarmac meeting at Los Angeles International Airport, Newsom expressed gratitude for federal assistance and emphasized the urgent need for collaboration in preventing future wildfire catastrophes. Trump, in response, reiterated his administration's commitment to supporting California's recovery efforts.
In a statement, Newsom said, "We may have our differences, but when it comes to protecting Californians, we must work together." Trump, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of forest management strategies and federal support for state resources.
The meeting comes amid ongoing debates over climate change's role in intensifying wildfires and the need for improved infrastructure to combat the growing threat.
For more updates on wildfire management policies, visit National Interagency Fire Center.
