U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has criticized Los Angeles County leaders for their handling of recent riots, which disrupted federally funded transit systems in the city. Duffy expressed concerns about the city's preparedness for upcoming major events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, which are expected to attract large numbers of visitors.
"Gavin Newsom and Karen Bass failed to show up for Angelenos as their city was terrorized by anti-ICE riots," said Duffy. "If President Donald Trump hadn’t stepped in and sent the National Guard and Marines in, LA would still be on fire."
Duffy's remarks were made in a letter to LA Mayor Karen Bass, where he criticized her response to violent protests that led to disruptions in rail and bus services. He requested a report within 30 days detailing the status of transit services affected by the riots, collaboration efforts between law enforcement agencies, safety protocols for future incidents, and resources planned for ensuring safe transportation during the World Cup and Olympics.
In another letter addressed to Stephanie Wiggins, CEO of the LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA), Duffy demanded information on measures being taken to deter crime and improve passenger conditions on public transit.
Earlier this year, Duffy also reached out to other major transit authorities with similar safety concerns. The U.S. Department of Transportation remains focused on maintaining safety standards across public transportation systems nationwide as part of broader infrastructure enhancement efforts under the Trump Administration.
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