Breaking News: Federal Emergency Declared for LA Wildfires
Tuesday, January 28, 2025

President Trump Declares Federal Emergency for Los Angeles Wildfires

During a visit to California, President Donald Trump declared a federal emergency for areas of Los Angeles affected by devastating wildfires. This declaration aims to expedite permitting processes and streamline rebuilding efforts in communities impacted by the disaster.

The President arrived at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) last Friday, January 24, 2025, and met with state and local officials to assess the extensive wildfire damage. “This federal emergency declaration will provide the resources and support needed to rebuild homes and communities swiftly,” President Trump stated during a press conference.

Emergency Water Access and Federal Assistance

In a significant move, President Trump announced that, under emergency powers, the U.S. military and the Army Corps of Engineers have redirected water flow from the Pacific Northwest to California. The initiative aims to support firefighting efforts and aid recovery operations.

“The days of putting a fake environmental argument over the PEOPLE are over,” President Trump declared.

The emergency declaration allows for waivers on permitting requirements, ensuring faster federal assistance and immediate action for affected communities.

Trump Meets with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

During his visit, President Trump held a one-on-one discussion with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass regarding the urgency of rebuilding efforts. Their exchange emphasized the need for immediate action:

Trump: “Groups are saying they can't start [rebuilding] for 18 months.”
Bass: “No. You can hold me to that.”
Trump: “Four groups said that.”
Bass: “No.”
Trump: “They need to start tonight.”
Bass: “That [delay] will not be the case. But first, we have to clear hazardous waste. We are expediting everything. We need your help.”
Trump: “You've got it. There will be zero delays. I am more worried about homeowners who want to start now. What is hazardous waste? Are we going to go through a whole series of questions defining it?”
Bass: “Nope, nope, nope.”
Trump: “Let them start the process tonight.”
Bass: “And we will. You can come back and check.”

Federal Emergency Confirmed

The federal state of emergency has been confirmed by NBC Los Angeles and TNW News LLC, underscoring the seriousness of the wildfires. Emergency responders are actively battling the flames, which have:

• Burned thousands of acres
• Displaced thousands of residents
• Damaged homes and infrastructure

Videos and Fact-Checking Update

Breaking News Video Coverage

TNW News LLC has released two key videos documenting President Trump’s visit, including his tour of wildfire-affected areas and conversations with local leaders.

Fact-Checking President Trump's Statements

TNW News LLC’s newsroom has verified the following claims from President Trump’s visit:

✅ Accurate:

• The federal emergency declaration has been confirmed.
• Waivers for permitting delays and expedited rebuilding efforts are in progress.
• Discussions with Mayor Karen Bass confirm a commitment to urgent recovery efforts.

🔎 Under Further Review:

• President Trump’s claims regarding redirected water access from higher elevations to Los Angeles required further verification.

Updated Confirmation from the White House

On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, during a press briefing at the White House, the Press Secretary confirmed that the Army Corps of Engineers has successfully redirected water to support fire-affected areas in Los Angeles.

With this confirmation, TNW News LLC’s breaking news and fact-checking teams can verify that all of President Trump's statements during his visit to California on Friday were accurate.

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