Bass, Barger have ‘positive discussion’ with Trump on FEMA funding for wildfire recovery

WASHINGTON () — Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and county Supervisor Kathryn Barger met with President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday afternoon.

In a joint statement, Bass and Barger said they were there to advocate for families who lost everything in the January 2025 wildfires.

“We had a very positive discussion about FEMA and other rebuilding funds as well as the support of the President to continue joining us in pressuring the insurance companies to pay what they owe – and for the big banks to step up to ease the financial pressure on L.A. families,” the statement said.

“Our job is to fight for our communities. When it comes to this recovery, our federal partners are essential, and we are grateful for the support of the President,” the statement added.

Fire survivors have described dealing with insurers and filing claims as the biggest hurdle to recovery.

City News Service contributed to this report.