POTUS visits South Bay

At the beginning of August, South Bay residents may have noticed road closures, random airplane swarms, and unusual traffic. These disruptions were caused by President Donald J. Trump’s visit to the Trump National Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes on Aug. 4 for the Republican National Committee Fundraising Dinner. This marked his second visit to California since returning to office in January 2025.

During the president’s visit, roads around Palos Verdes Drive South and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) faced heavy traffic, delays, and closures.

“I have a job, and one of my few days off before school started was the fourth. I was looking forward to going to Del Amo that day to shop, but I didn’t have enough time with all the traffic,” said Palos Verdes High School (PVHS) student and Palos Verdes resident Samantha Pressey. Aside from concerns about traffic, residents also shared their opinions about Trump’s arrival.

“Donald Trump is in California today for a fundraiser at his golf course. But he still REFUSES to deliver the federal wildfire disaster aid he promised to Los Angeles wildfire survivors…Stop stiffing Californians, Mr. President. Keep your word.”

PVHS student and Palos Verdes resident Darla Stoler was also unenthusiastic about Trump’s visit.

“I don’t agree with some of the things he has done, and he and his administration’s values make me uncomfortable,” Stoler said. “However, I try not to be too outspoken about my political opinions while living in Palos Verdes, because he has a lot of supporters around here, and I don’t want to cause any extra controversy.”

Fellow PVHS student Courtney Clinton had a different opinion.

“It feels cool when Trump comes into town because not only is he the president, but he is also a celebrity, so it feels like he is putting our town on the map,” said Clinton. “It made me feel supported and recognized as an American.”

Jeanine John Taele, a Downey resident and U.S. Marine, was arrested two days before Trump’s visit for suspicious activity around the Trump National Golf Course. Taele roamed the premises twice leading up to the visit, carrying ammunition and taking photos of Secret Service agents. His motives remained unclear.

“I do not like the idea of anyone near our community walking around with a gun or any type of weapon,” Pressey said. “I understand some of his opinions, but I personally believe that violence is not the answer.”