Donald Trump pledges support for Los Angeles 2028 Olympics amid wildfires and relocation calls.
At a Glance
- Trump meets with LA Olympics organizers, commits to keeping 2028 Games in the city
- Some Republicans suggest relocating Olympics due to wildfire concerns
- Trump emphasizes importance of Olympics for Los Angeles, calling them “America’s Olympics”
- Wildfires raise questions about LA’s ability to host safe and successful Games
- None of the 80+ Olympic venues directly affected by wildfires so far
Trump Reaffirms Support for LA Olympics
Former President Donald Trump has declared his unwavering support for Los Angeles as the host city for the 2028 Summer Olympics. This commitment comes amid growing concerns over wildfires in the region and calls from some Republicans to relocate the Games to a conservative-run city. Trump’s stance was solidified following a meeting with LA Olympics organizers at Mar-a-Lago, where he promised to back the city’s recovery efforts from the recent wildfires.
During the meeting, Trump reassured LA28 chair Casey Wasserman of his dedication to ensuring the success of the Games. The former president’s support is seen as crucial, especially given the challenges faced by the city in recent times.
Scoop: Trump pledges to make L.A. Olympics "the greatest games" https://t.co/xPnYorxQli
— Axios (@axios) January 16, 2025
Republican Calls for Relocation
Despite Trump’s backing, some conservative voices have suggested moving the Olympics to a different location. U.S. Representative Jim Jordan has voiced support for relocating the 2028 Olympics from Los Angeles to a Republican-governed city, citing concerns over state management and the ongoing wildfire crisis. Jordan proposed alternative host cities such as Dallas or Miami.
“These are America’s Olympics. These are more important than ever to LA and I’m going to be supportive in every way possible and make them the greatest games.” – Donald Trump
The debate over the Olympics’ location has intensified following devastating wildfires in Los Angeles that have resulted in at least 24 deaths and the destruction of thousands of structures. Critics of California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have pointed to budget cuts in firefighting as a cause for concern.
Wildfire Concerns and Olympic Preparations
The recent wildfires have raised questions about Los Angeles’s ability to host a safe and successful Olympics. Firefighters are currently battling multiple fires in Los Angeles County, which have burned over 40,000 acres. However, it’s worth noting that none of the 80+ Olympic venues in Los Angeles have been directly affected by the wildfires so far.
“As a lifelong Angeleno, I shared our sentiments for President-elect Trump’s continued support in Los Angeles amid the devastation in our region.” – Casey Wasserman
Despite the challenges, Trump has emphasized the importance of the Olympics for Los Angeles, calling them “America’s Olympics.” He has promised to make the 2028 Olympics “the greatest Games” and stressed their significance to the city’s future. The former president’s support comes at a crucial time as Los Angeles works to address the wildfire crisis and prepare for the global sporting event.
Looking Ahead
As the debate over the 2028 Olympics continues, Los Angeles officials and organizers remain committed to hosting the Games. With Trump’s backing and the city’s determination, efforts are underway to ensure that Los Angeles can provide a safe and memorable Olympic experience. The coming years will be critical in addressing the concerns raised and demonstrating the city’s capability to host one of the world’s largest sporting events.
Sources:
- Donald Trump Declares Stance On LA Olympics After Allies Call To Move Them To Red State: Report
- Will Donald Trump move the 2028 Olympics from Los Angeles to a red-run town? Ohio Republican Jim Jordan backs the idea and has this to say – The Economic Times
- Trump sticking with fire-ravaged Los Angeles for Olympics despite calls from GOP to move to a red-state | The Independent