President Donald Trump suggested at a political rally in Nebraska that Iran could take out major US cities, specifically naming Los Angeles and San Diego. During the event, Trump stated, "They could take out a city. Let 'em take out Los Angeles. Let 'em take out San Diego."
Trump told supporters he hoped to see a tremendous victory in the upcoming November midterm elections, stating that such a win would verify the actions of his administration. He further suggested that high prices resulting from the war with Iran were a small price to pay for keeping the country and the world safe.
California officials and Democratic leaders sharply denounced the remarks as reckless, irresponsible, and dangerous. Governor Gavin Newsom called the president deranged and dangerous following the comments. Some fellow Republicans also joined in the rebuke of the president's statements.