WASHINGTON D.C. May 19, 2026 — Governor Gavin Newsom wrapped up a day of meetings in the nation’s capital on Tuesday, pressing for federal support to aid recovery from the devastating Los Angeles wildfires that struck in January 2025.
In a video posted to X, Newsom highlighted productive bipartisan discussions, including a meeting with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on housing, elections, and redistricting. He also met with EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to discuss debris removal and ongoing recovery efforts from last year’s fires.
“Despite strong, bipartisan support in Congress for long-term relief to rebuild from the LA fires, we’re still waiting on the White House to officially send our request to Capitol Hill,” Newsom stated. “Let’s get the job done, @POTUS.”
California first submitted a formal supplemental appropriations request in February 2025, initially seeking around $40 billion. The state later revised it downward to $33.9 billion to account for funds already disbursed for debris removal, public assistance, and small business support. The request covers home rebuilding, school repairs, infrastructure, hazard mitigation, and tax incentives to accelerate recovery.
Nearly 11–16 months after the Palisades and Eaton Fires — among the costliest natural disasters in U.S. history — progress on long-term rebuilding remains stalled without full federal backing. Newsom has repeatedly urged the Trump administration to transmit the request to Congress, noting bipartisan interest on Capitol Hill.
The governor’s office has pointed to successful collaboration on initial debris cleanup but stressed the need for additional resources as communities transition to permanent recovery. Critics, including many social media users responding to the post, have questioned California’s track record on managing large-scale funding, citing past issues with high-speed rail, homelessness programs, and fraud concerns.
Newsom’s latest trip comes amid ongoing tensions and new wildfire activity in parts of California. State officials continue to streamline permitting and local recovery efforts while seeking federal partnership.
This story is developing.
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