Grenell Torches L.A. Mayor Decision to Pay Recovery Czar $500K from Charity [WATCH]

President Donald Trump’s Envoy for Special Missions, Ric Grenell, has criticized Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s decision to appoint a “recovery czar” with a hefty three-month salary of $500,000 funded by charitable organizations.

Bass named former L.A. Police Commissioner Steve Soboroff to lead rebuilding efforts after the recent wildfires that devastated homes, businesses, and claimed at least 29 lives over a three-week period.

According to the Los Angeles Times, Soboroff’s salary will be covered entirely by charitable groups.

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Additionally, real estate executive Randy Johnson, known for his work with Soboroff in developing L.A.’s Playa Vista neighborhood, will receive $250,000 over the same 90-day period for assisting in recovery efforts.

Grenell, a longtime Trump ally, expressed his disapproval on social media, calling the arrangement excessive.

“He’s getting paid $500,000 for 3 months of work? And they call this a charity,” Grenell wrote on X. “Gross. Offensive.”

Grenell, who recently toured the fire-ravaged areas alongside Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, Mayor Bass, and other officials, emphasized that many individuals involved in the recovery are volunteering their time.

“I’m getting paid $0 – as are many people,” he stated in his post. “It’s a good thing there will be strings on the Federal money for California.”

He’s getting paid $500,000 for 3 months of work? And they call this a charity.

Gross. Offensive.

I’m getting paid $0 – as are many people.

It’s a good thing there will be strings on the Federal money for California. https://t.co/ZWabYTxOxg

— Richard Grenell (@RichardGrenell) February 8, 2025

The criticism comes as California Governor Gavin Newsom signed two bills on Friday approving $50 million to counteract Trump administration policies, just after meeting with President Trump to request federal disaster aid for the state.

A live look at Gavin Newsom signing a pair of bills authorizing 50 MILLION taxpayer dollars to fight Trump and legal services for illegal immigrants. pic.twitter.com/zmu25BpFIe

— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) February 8, 2025

The governor has faced scrutiny for prioritizing legal challenges against Trump while simultaneously seeking federal funds for wildfire recovery.

Newsom just signed the “Trump-proofing” bills. This is despite Trump graciously meeting with him in DC and devoting the fourth day of his presidency to personally visiting LA.

Our Governor never ceases to amaze with his lack of decency and disregard for our state.

— Kevin Kiley (@KevinKileyCA) February 8, 2025

Soboroff has also drawn attention for his comments regarding labor shortages in reconstruction efforts.

Speaking to Breitbart News, he claimed that half of the workers needed for rebuilding could face deportation due to immigration enforcement policies.

Despite the controversy, Soboroff has stated his willingness to cooperate with the Trump administration.

“I want to work with Trump on rebuilding,” he told Breitbart News.

As recovery efforts continue, questions remain over how resources are allocated and whether public or private funds should be used to compensate individuals overseeing disaster response efforts.

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