Senator Adam Schiff has opted out of President Donald Trump’s visit to California’s wildfire-affected areas, citing his obligations in Washington, D.C. A spokesperson explained that Schiff must remain in the capital for nomination votes, preventing him from accompanying the President to Los Angeles.
Despite his absence, Schiff acknowledged Trump’s efforts to personally assess the wildfire devastation and expressed gratitude for the invitation. He emphasized his commitment to working with federal and state officials, as well as lawmakers from both parties, to secure the resources California needs for recovery.
Trump’s visit marks his first trip of his second administration, focusing on disaster-stricken regions. His stops include Los Angeles, which has been severely impacted by wildfires, and North Carolina, which suffered from Hurricane Helene.
The President has criticized how the Biden administration responded to the hurricane, expressing frustration with the delays. Before departing from the White House, he reassured reporters that the situation would be addressed, calling it unacceptable that the issue had been neglected since the storm hit in September.