A top Trump ally revealed that federal disaster aid to Los Angeles following January's devastating firestorm could come with strings attached, specifically targeting the California Coastal Commission.
Ric Grenell, Trump's presidential envoy for special missions, stated at the Conservative Political Action Conference that "there will be conditions" attached to federal assistance. One key condition under consideration is defunding the California Coastal Commission, the state agency responsible for regulating coastal development and protecting public beach access.
"I think squeezing their federal funds, making sure they don't get funds, putting strings on them to get rid of the California Coastal Commission is going to make California better," Grenell declared at the conference.
The statements come as Governor Gavin Newsom requests $39.7 billion in federal aid to help Los Angeles recover from the January firestorm, which caused an estimated $250 billion in economic losses and destroyed over 16,000 structures across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Pasadena, and Altadena.
Trump has previously criticized the Coastal Commission as an overly bureaucratic agency that impedes timely rebuilding efforts. The former president has also historically threatened to withhold federal funding from states that opposed his agenda.
The aid package's approval now hinges on Republican lawmakers' willingness to allocate funds during a period focused on reducing spending, and Democrats' acceptance of potential conditions. Some Republicans have suggested linking aid to various policy changes, including modifications to California's water policies and new voter ID requirements.
While Newsom's letter to Congress avoided addressing the controversy over conditions, the governor emphasized Los Angeles's economic importance and pledged responsible use of federal funds. The requested aid would support rebuilding homes, infrastructure, businesses, and various community facilities affected by the fires.