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U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Calls Out LA Leaders for Failed Response to Riots Ahead of FIFA World Cup and Olympics

Thursday, June 26, 2025

‘The weak leadership you have shown...does not inspire confidence in your ability to represent one of the Nation’s largest cities as it hosts some of the world’s biggest events’

WASHINGTON – U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy today called out Los Angeles (LA) County leaders for their weak leadership during the LA riots that led to service cancellations on federally funded transit systems across Los Angeles. Secretary Duffy also noted the failed response to the unrest raises serious questions about the city’s ability to keep citizens and tourists safe during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics. The games are expected to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors.

“Gavin Newsom and Karen Bass failed to show up for Angelenos as their city was terrorized by anti-ICE riots. If President Donald Trump hadn’t stepped in and sent the National Guard and Marines in, LA would still be on fire,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy. “If this was a preview of their leadership ahead of next year’s World Cup games and the LA 2028 Olympics, we have bigger problems.”

In a letter to LA Mayor Karen Bass, Secretary Duffy points out that Bass’s failure to quickly and efficiently stop violent protests led to commuters losing access to rail and bus transit options. Secretary Duffy has requested the mayor submit a written report within 30 days that: 

  • Provides a status update on all transit services that experienced closures or delays due to the recent riots
  • Outlines how the Los Angeles Police Department is collaborating with transit police and Federal law enforcement to restore order
  • Identifies safety protocols to address future riots or unlawful activity on the LA Metro
  • Summarizes what resources will be deployed to ensure fans can get to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics games safely and on time. 

In a separate letter to LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) CEO Stephanie Wiggins, the Secretary demands details on what actions are being taken by the transit agency to deter crime, stop fare evasion, and provide a clean environment for passengers riding its transit system.

Additional Background:

Earlier this year, Secretary Duffy also sent letters to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority and the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority outlining concerns about safety and security on those transit systems.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those who travel in and through Los Angeles County. By directing local leaders to address critical safety concerns, uphold federal standards, and prioritize effective crime prevention measures, USDOT is reinforcing its oversight role in safeguarding public transportation systems. These actions underscore the Trump Administration’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure, promote efficient mobility, and protect passengers, workers, and visitors in Los Angeles County and throughout the country.  

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