A remark at a Nebraska rally on Oct. 5 drew sharp backlash from California politicians. Trump did not say whether he was joking, and observers say it could affect California's political landscape.
US President Donald Trump caused an uproar at a rally in Nebraska on Oct. 5 by saying that letting Iran destroy Los Angeles or San Diego would be a very small price to pay to keep America safe. The crowd responded with applause, but Trump did not say whether he was joking or serious.
광고 문의 · 300×250The remark was tied to the threat of an Iranian nuclear weapon and was read as implying that Iran, if it develops one, could gain the ability to attack American cities. It came as confrontation between Iran and the US rises and the economic shock related to the war with Iran has become a burden for the administration.
California leaders push back
California Governor Gavin Newsom said Trump keeps speaking inappropriately even after sending in federal troops, calling it 'unhinged and dangerous.' San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria stressed 'we are not expendable' and demanded the remarks stop, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said it endangers residents and contradicts a president's duty to protect the country.
Political fallout and the facts
Some political analysts say Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton could be dragged down by the remark. Democratic candidate Xavier Becerra used it to say Trump disregards the lives of Californians.
Meanwhile US defense officials have earlier said Iran currently lacks the ability to strike the US mainland, which conflicts with Trump's earlier claim that Iranian missiles could soon reach the United States.
A third view
Heated rhetoric at rallies is also political language used to rally supporters, but in a situation involving nuclear threats and war it can affect other countries' security calculations. Allies appear to be separating intent from actual policy while preparing for rising uncertainty.
