Official statements and actions from California's government

Trump Issues 'Putting People Over Fish' Order to Redirect California Water Supply on January 23 Amid Wildfire Crisis

Jan 21, 2025, 10:45 PM

President Donald Trump has issued an executive order titled "Putting People Over Fish," directing federal agencies to redirect water from Northern California's Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta to Southern California. This action aims to alleviate water shortages exacerbated by recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area. The order counters California's previous water management policies, which were designed to protect the endangered Delta Smelt, a fish species. Trump has criticized these policies, stating that they have contributed to the devastation caused by wildfires. His first trip of the second term is scheduled for Friday, January 23, 2025, during which he will visit disaster-hit areas in North Carolina and California to assess recovery efforts and offer support. Trump has expressed intentions to thank Nevada voters for their support in the recent election during this trip. The executive order reflects a broader strategy to prioritize human needs over environmental regulations in the context of water management in California.