Trump's Iran Remark About Los Angeles and San Diego Draws Backlash

President Donald Trump suggested at a Nebraska rally on Monday night that Iran could "take out" Los Angeles or San Diego, a remark that drew condemnation from residents and officials across the political spectrum, according to The Guardian.

What did Trump say about the two cities?

Trump raised the possibility before a cheering crowd that a foreign power could strike two of the country's best-known cities, the Guardian reported. The outlet described the comment as an "unprecedented musing" that came as both California cities endured a record-breaking heatwave this week.

How did Los Angeles residents respond?

Jessica, a 28-year-old Los Angeles hair stylist who asked to be identified only by her first name out of concern for her Mexican-born parents' safety, told the Guardian she saw the remark while scrolling social media Tuesday morning. She called it a low point for a president who has "already spent years attacking immigrant families like hers," the paper reported.

"I was just thinking what the fuck is wrong with him? He hates us. He hates LA. He hates any Democratic state ... It's just a really sad situation."

The Guardian reported Jessica made the comment while waiting for a Waymo outside a grocery store in the city's Koreatown neighborhood.

What did San Diego residents say about the naval base reference?

The Guardian reported that San Diego residents viewed the remark as a particular "disservice" to a city that hosts multiple naval bases. The outlet did not name specific San Diego residents quoted in the available excerpt, but characterized local reaction as ranging from "deep hostility to dismissive incredulity."

How did California's governor respond?

Governor Gavin Newsom called the remarks "dangerous — if not treasonous — putting a target on two of our biggest cities and one of America's largest naval hubs," according to the Guardian.

Why do some residents link the remark to broader policy fights?

The Guardian reported that many California residents interpreted Trump's comment as part of a larger pattern of hostility toward the west coast's political leanings and demographic makeup. The newspaper pointed to the deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles during 2025 immigration enforcement operations as an earlier flashpoint residents cited when discussing the president's posture toward the state.

The Guardian's report, filed by reporters Roque Planas and Sam Levin in Los Angeles, did not include a response from the White House to the specific reactions gathered from residents. Readers can review the full account, including additional context on the Nebraska rally, at the Guardian's original story.