Story perspectives

Trump Backs Bill Labeling Lifeguards First Responders

8/20/2026

Summary

Trump Mocks

U.S. President Donald Trump told 10-year-old Nathaniel Rai Aug. 17, 2026 he was lucky he wasn’t on service that day and probably would not have acted.
The July 25, 2026 rescue at Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz, was carried out by 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams with Aaron Bohnen.
People laughed while online users mocked the comments.
U.S. President Donald Trump called reporter Kristen Holmes “fake news” and told her to be quiet.

Summary

Trump Backs Lifeguards

California senators are debating a bill to label open-water lifeguards as first responders, potentially granting federal benefits.
Senator John Laird said lifeguards already act as first responders but the proposal would require eight-month peace-officer-level training.
President Donald Trump said he would “put my weight behind” the legislation, which supporters say would improve protections and which critics warn could strain training and blur lines.

1 of 2

Trump Mocks

U.S. President Donald Trump told 10-year-old Nathaniel Rai Aug. 17, 2026 he was lucky he wasn’t on service that day and probably would not have acted.
The July 25, 2026 rescue at Seabright State Beach, Santa Cruz, was carried out by 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams with Aaron Bohnen.
People laughed while online users mocked the comments.
U.S. President Donald Trump called reporter Kristen Holmes “fake news” and told her to be quiet.

1 / 2