Hawaii Faces Over $1B in Storm Recovery as California Awaits L.A. Fire Aid

Hawaii emerges from punishing storms, while California still seeks federal aid for wildfires over a year later.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:11pm

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As Hawaii grapples with over $1 billion in needed disaster relief following severe storms and flooding, the state faces questions about whether the Trump administration will provide the necessary aid. This comes as California's Governor Gavin Newsom continues to plead for federal assistance to rebuild homes, schools, roads and essential services decimated by wildfires in Los Angeles County more than a year ago.

Why it matters

The recovery process for natural disasters can be long and frustrating, as demonstrated by the ongoing struggles in both Hawaii and California to secure federal aid. This highlights the challenges states face in navigating the bureaucracy of disaster relief, as well as the political dynamics that can influence the allocation of resources.

The details

Hawaii is assessing over $1 billion in needed disaster relief after several days of punishing storms and flooding that forced thousands to evacuate. Meanwhile, California's Governor Newsom has been repeatedly pressing the Trump administration for federal aid to rebuild from wildfires in Los Angeles County that occurred over a year ago. The Trump administration has been criticized for withholding support from Democrat-led states facing natural disasters.

  • The storms and flooding in Hawaii occurred over the past several days.
  • California's wildfires in Los Angeles County happened more than a year ago, in late 2024.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California who has been seeking federal aid for wildfire recovery in Los Angeles County.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, whose administration has been criticized for withholding disaster relief from Democrat-led states.

Josh Green

The Governor of Hawaii who will be seeking FEMA assistance for his state's storm recovery efforts.

Gregg Phillips

The newly appointed FEMA official in charge of disaster recovery relief, who has faced scrutiny for his past claims of being teleported to a Waffle House.

Kristi Noem

The former Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, whose policy of requiring her personal approval for FEMA payouts has been criticized.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.