California officials and water experts have disputed President Trump’s claims regarding the U.S. military’s involvement in addressing water issues in the state. The controversy arises amidst ongoing tensions between Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom, particularly concerning the state’s handling of wildfires and water resources.
The California Department of Water Resources clarified that while federal water pumps were restarted after maintenance, the military did not intervene in California’s water management. The state maintains that its water supplies, especially in Southern California, remain adequate and are supported by proactive water management strategies.
Trump’s comments on Truth Social suggested that federal intervention had corrected what he described as “fake environmental arguments” impacting water availability. However, state experts and water agencies have emphasized that California’s water systems are functioning well, with reservoirs at or above average levels for the time of year.
The President’s executive order aims to override certain state water policies, which he argues are unnecessarily restrictive. This move has been met with skepticism from California officials who argue that the state’s water policies are based on scientific and environmental considerations, including the protection of endangered species.
Overall, the claims of military involvement and water shortages in Southern California have been largely refuted by state officials and water experts.
