Summary (tl;dr)

President Donald Trump's recent remarks suggesting Iran could "take out" Los Angeles and San Diego have sparked widespread condemnation and led California's Governor Gavin Newsom to call for the invocation of the 25th Amendment.

Essential Background

President Trump has a history of a contentious relationship with California, often using the state as a target for criticism in his political rallies. The current controversy unfolds against the backdrop of an ongoing war with Iran and in the lead-up to the November midterm elections, where the economic impact of the conflict, including gas prices, has been a significant point of discussion.

The Full Story

On October 5, 2026, during a campaign rally in Grand Island, Nebraska, President Donald Trump made controversial statements regarding the war with Iran. While discussing the high gas prices associated with the conflict, he stated that these were a "small price to pay for keeping the world safe, keeping our country safe," adding, "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 and it's going to be over with very soon."

These remarks immediately drew severe criticism from California's political leaders. Governor Gavin Newsom, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria all denounced Trump's comments, with Newsom calling them "deranged and dangerous" and advocating for the activation of the 25th Amendment. Senator Alex Padilla also joined the call for the 25th Amendment. The White House, however, defended President Trump's statements, clarifying that he was not advocating for attacks on U.S. cities but rather describing the potential threats American cities would face if Iran were not prevented from developing nuclear weapons.

Why It Matters

The trending keywords reflect a national debate over the President's rhetoric, particularly concerning national security and the well-being of American citizens. The suggestion, even if framed as a hypothetical or a warning, that major U.S. cities could be "taken out" as a "small price to pay" is seen by critics as reckless and potentially dangerous, especially from a sitting president. The calls for the 25th Amendment, which outlines procedures for presidential disability and removal, highlight serious concerns about the President's judgment and fitness for office, igniting a constitutional discussion about the stability of leadership during a time of international conflict and domestic political tension.

Geographic Location

• Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, United States (location of President Trump's campaign rally)
• Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States (city mentioned in President Trump's remarks and subject of criticism from Mayor Karen Bass)
• San Diego, San Diego County, California, United States (city mentioned in President Trump's remarks and subject of criticism from Mayor Todd Gloria)