Trump Says He Saved LA from Burning—But Is That the Whole Story?

Okay, let’s talk about this. Earlier this week, Trump dropped another one of those attention-grabbing lines at a rally—you know how he does. Claimed if it weren’t for the National Guard stepping in, Los Angeles would be “burning today.” Strong words. The kind that gets cheers from his base and eye rolls from everyone else. But here’s the thing: like most of what comes out of Trump’s mouth, there’s a sliver of truth wrapped in a whole lot of drama.

“LA Would Be Burning Today” – Breaking Down the Soundbite

“If we didn’t do it, there wouldn’t be a Los Angeles. It would be burning today just like the houses were burning a few months ago.” Classic Trump. Takes wildfires—something Californians deal with every year—and spins it into a doomsday scenario only he could prevent. And sure, the National Guard helped during fire season. But come on. Implying they’re the only thing standing between LA and total annihilation? That’s a stretch.

Let me put it this way: it’s like saying umbrellas are the only reason we don’t drown in the rain. Technically true in some situations, but ignoring all the other factors—like, you know, drainage systems and the fact that rain eventually stops.

Why This Rhetoric Works (Even When It Shouldn’t)

Trump’s genius—if you can call it that—is linking two totally different issues (wildfires and protests) under this idea of “lawlessness.” It plays right into what his supporters already believe about big cities run by Democrats. Doesn’t matter if the facts don’t quite fit. The feeling sticks.

The National Guard in LA: Helpful or Overkill?

So here’s where it gets messy. The Guard did provide support during the worst of the wildfires—air drops, logistics, all that. And during the 2020 protests, they were there too, mostly handling stuff like traffic control. But here’s what Trump leaves out:

• Local firefighters did 90% of the actual firefighting
• Most protests were peaceful—the “chaos” made better TV
• LA’s police chief never actually requested military intervention

One city councilmember put it best: “We appreciate the help, but we’re not some failed state that needs occupying.” Ouch.

How LA Actually Handles Its Problems

Look, I’ve been to LA. It’s got issues—homelessness, crazy housing prices, traffic that’ll make you question life choices. But “Third World lawlessness”? Please. You want to see actual collapse? Try finding a working ATM during a real crisis. LA’s got problems, but it’s still functioning.

What bugs me is how this narrative ignores the people actually solving problems on the ground. Like those firefighters working 72-hour shifts. Or community groups mediating between protesters and police. But I guess “local heroes doing their jobs” doesn’t make for a catchy campaign slogan.

The Real Wildfire Story

Here’s something Trump never mentions: climate change making fires worse every year. The Guard can drop water today, but if we don’t fix the bigger picture? We’ll just keep needing more troops. It’s like bailing out a sinking boat with a teaspoon instead of plugging the hole.

Why This Matters for 2024

Trump’s not just talking about LA—he’s testing messages for his campaign. Crime and “urban decay” poll well with his base. But this time around, that apocalyptic tone might not work as well. After years of hearing everything’s on fire (sometimes literally), people are tired.

And honestly? Some of his own supporters live in cities now. You can’t keep telling them they’re living in warzones when their biggest daily struggle is finding parking.

The Bottom Line

Was the National Guard helpful? Sure. Did they single-handedly save LA from becoming a smoldering ruin? Not even close. Trump’s taking a grain of truth and building a sandcastle of exaggeration on top of it. As usual.

What do you think—does this “law and order” message still work, or are people seeing through it now? Drop a comment below. And if you’ve got friends still sharing those “LA is falling apart” posts, maybe send them this article.

Further Reading

• How California Actually Fights Wildfires (Hint: It’s Not Just the Military)
• Local Leaders Respond to Trump’s Comments
• Poll: Do Voters Still Care About “Law and Order” Rhetoric?

Note: This post was updated to correct a typo—because unlike some politicians, we admit when we mess up.

Source: NY Post – US News