President Donald Trump sparked a backlash after telling a campaign rally in Nebraska that an Iranian strike on Los Angeles or San Diego would be "a very small price to pay" in the war with Iran.
Speaking to supporters, Trump addressed the high costs of the war and said they were "a small price to pay" to protect the security of the world and the United States. He then added: "They can take a city. Let them take Los Angeles. Let them take San Diego. It's a very small price to pay."
The crowd at the rally applauded the remarks. Trump went on to say the war is expected to end soon, but added it could drag on longer.
The comments drew sharp criticism in California. Governor Gavin Newsom wrote that Trump is now saying America's enemies can "take" Los Angeles and San Diego, calling the remarks "dangerous."
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also attacked the statement, saying the president's job is to protect the country, not encourage attacks on American citizens. San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said his city is not "collateral damage" and not "a small price" to be paid.
