Key takeaways:

• President Trump claimed approval for low income housing in Pacific Palisades.
• Governor Newsom’s team says no such permits exist.
• There is no plan to pump water from the Pacific Northwest to Los Angeles.
• Federal housing permits do not exist.
• The spat highlights the growing feud between Trump and Newsom.

The Truth Behind Low Income Housing Claims

President Trump posted on Truth Social that California plans to build low income housing in Pacific Palisades. He said Governor Gavin Newsom is in “final stages of approval” for that plan. Furthermore, Trump blamed Newsom for failed fire response and late permits. However, none of those claims matched reality. Newsom’s press office quickly fired back. In fact, there is no state approval for low income housing on fire-damaged lots. Therefore, Trump’s post is misleading.

How False Low Income Housing Claims Spread

First, Trump said Pacific Palisades will get low income housing before rebuilding permits for citizens. Second, he said Governor Newsom refused millions of gallons of water from the Pacific Northwest. Third, he mentioned “federal permits” that do not exist. In his post, Trump even linked the plan to the downfall of a New York mayor. Yet all of these statements are false. As a result, Newsom’s team called out each error.

Trump’s Claims in Detail

On Truth Social, Trump wrote that Pacific Palisades would soon host low income housing. He warned this was unfair to wildfire victims. He also accused Newsom of dropping water from the Northwest. Then he claimed Lee Zeldin, the EPA administrator, and he had issued faster federal permits than state leaders. Finally, he blamed Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Newsom for public failure.

Newsom’s Press Office Response

Shortly after Trump’s post, Newsom’s press office spoke on X. They wrote, “Take your dementia meds, grandpa. You are making things up again.” They then listed the false points. First, Los Angeles leaders exempted Pacific Palisades from duplex rebuilding rules. Consequently, no low income housing sits on those lots. Second, no pipeline exists to pump water over thousands of miles. Third, federal permits for housing do not exist in law.

Why the Claims Fall Apart

In California, local leaders decide building permits. State law does allow duplexes on single-family lots. Yet the mayor of Los Angeles chose to opt out in Pacific Palisades. Therefore, no duplex or low income housing can go up there now. Moreover, water moves through existing pipes and reservoirs. It does not travel from Oregon or Washington to Los Angeles. Finally, there is no federal housing permit system that overrides local rules.

What Really Happened in Pacific Palisades

Last year, wildfires swept through parts of Pacific Palisades. In response, the city cleared debris and set new building rules. Residents can rebuild single-family homes. However, local leaders decided not to allow duplexes. Their goal was to preserve the neighborhood character. Thus, low income housing projects cannot start there under current rules.

The Role of Federal Permits

President Trump mentioned federal permits in his post. Yet in practice, housing permits come from cities or counties. The federal government may fund affordable housing. However, it does not issue building permits. Instead, local officials review plans for safety and zoning. Consequently, Trump’s claim of “federal permits issued long before state permits” is inaccurate.

The Political Backdrop

This clash comes as Gavin Newsom’s stock rises in the Democratic Party. He recently challenged Texas Republicans over a gerrymander plan. Furthermore, he has publicly mocked Trump on social media. Trump’s post on low income housing reflects this wider feud. Both leaders seek to rally their bases. As a result, claims fly faster than facts.

Why It Matters

First, misinformation can confuse voters. Simple claims about water and housing sound urgent. Yet people deserve accurate info. Second, housing is a sensitive issue in California. Many struggle to find affordable homes. When leaders talk about low income housing, they must be clear. Third, this fight shows how social media fuels false claims.

Lessons for Readers

Always check official sources when you see bold claims. Local building rules and state laws determine housing projects. Large social media posts may mix truth with fiction. Moreover, fact checks help set the record straight. Finally, consider context. Political leaders often exaggerate points to score headlines.

Looking Ahead

Governor Newsom and President Trump will likely continue to trade barbs. As the 2024 election approaches, expect more social media spats. Voters should watch for smoke and mirrors. Always seek reliable information on housing, water, and any public policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the truth about low income housing in Pacific Palisades?

Local laws currently prevent duplex or low income housing in that fire-affected area. No state or city approval exists for such projects.

Can the federal government issue housing permits?

No. Housing permits come from city or county planning departments. Federal agencies may fund or regulate, but they do not grant early building permits.

Why would Trump claim water came from the Pacific Northwest?

Trump likely confused infrastructure plans. California does get water from different regions, but not by pumping fresh water over long distances from the Northwest.

How can readers verify similar claims?

Check official government websites or reputable news outlets. Look for local zoning maps, planning department notices, or statements from recognized officials.