Rep. Judy Chu Advocates for Southern California Wildfire Relief Following Presidential Briefing

Rep. Judy Chu with World Central Kitchen founder, and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, Chef José Andrés, Jan. 12, 2025 (File Photo – Office of Judy Chu)

After attending the newly elected President’s Fire Recovery Briefing in Pacific Palisades on Thursday, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) voiced her commitment to securing vital federal assistance for Southern California communities ravaged by wildfires.

By Rena Kurlander

In her statement following the briefing, Rep. Chu expressed optimism about the President’s support, emphasizing his pledge to help Californians “100 percent” in their recovery efforts. According to Rep. Chu, the President made it clear that the state would receive “whatever we needed” to heal, recover, and rebuild, with no conditions attached.

“The president did not mention conditions for the aid, which is important for ensuring that our communities can fully recover,” said Rep. Chu. “This continues the positive relationship our region has had with federal administrations, from the Biden-Harris administration to the [current] administration.”

While acknowledging the President’s swift response to her request to visit the fire-affected area just days after his inauguration, Rep. Chu urged him to extend his attention beyond the Palisades to include other severely impacted areas, particularly Altadena and Pasadena. These areas have faced significant devastation, and residents there have been vocal in their need for federal aid.

“Wildfires have no political affiliation,” Rep. Chu added. “The survivors in Altadena, Pasadena, and beyond desperately need help, and it’s crucial that federal support be provided without delays or conditions.”

As part of her continued advocacy, Rep. Chu reiterated the importance of federal cooperation in disaster recovery, stressing that a strong California is essential for the strength of the entire country.

“In times of disaster, we have each other’s backs,” said Rep. Chu. “As the president noted, no golden age of the country can begin without a strong Golden State.”

Rep. Chu’s remarks come as federal and state officials continue to navigate the response to the ongoing wildfire devastation across Southern California.

Click here to view Rep. Chu’s full remarks during the briefing.