In a direct response to US President-elect Donald Trump’s blame of California Governor Gavin Newsom for the devastating wildfires tearing through Los Angeles, Newsom fired back with a letter urging Trump to focus on the victims of the disaster rather than engage in political rhetoric. The California Governor, a Democrat, rejected Trump's accusations and criticized him for "politicising a human tragedy" and "spreading disinformation from the sidelines." Newsom extended a public invitation to Trump, urging him to visit California and witness firsthand the destruction caused by the wildfires.
Newsom emphasized the need for unity and cooperation in the face of the tragedy, which has already claimed at least 11 lives, displaced thousands, and destroyed countless homes. The Governor pointed out the importance of leaders coming together to address the needs of the victims, rather than using the situation for political gain. In his letter, Newsom stressed, "As you prepare to assume the presidency once more, I invite you to come to California. The hundreds of thousands of Americans - displaced from their homes and fearful for the future - deserve to see us all working together in their best interests, not politicizing a human tragedy and spreading disinformation from the sidelines."
The recent wildfire is being considered the most destructive in Los Angeles history. It has caused widespread devastation, with many residents losing their homes, including several Hollywood celebrities. This has prompted many to flee from their properties as the fires spread.
Newsom also took the opportunity to remind Trump of his previous visits to California after earlier fires, including the 2018 Paradise fire and a series of wildfires in 2020. He noted how Trump, during his presidency, had visited the state to assess the damage and meet those affected. The Governor outlined the underlying causes of the current crisis, citing a severe windstorm on January 7 that hit Southern California, with gusts reaching nearly 100 miles per hour. Coupled with the region's dry conditions due to the lack of rain, the winds turned what would typically be small ignition points into massive, uncontrollable wildfires.
Trump had been vocal in his criticism of Newsom’s handling of the fires, blaming the Governor for the crisis and even calling for his resignation. The President-elect accused Newsom of mishandling California’s water resources, which he claimed contributed to the fires' spread. Specifically, Trump criticized Newsom for not signing a water restoration declaration that would have allowed more water to flow to the areas affected by the fires. In his usual combative manner, Trump referred to Newsom as "Newscum" and claimed that Newsom prioritized protecting a "worthless fish called a smelt" over providing water for firefighting efforts, further fueling his argument that Newsom's actions were detrimental to California residents.
This ongoing back-and-forth between Newsom and Trump has drawn national attention, reflecting the broader tension between the two political figures, particularly as Newsom continues to advocate for stronger climate policies, while Trump has consistently criticized his leadership. As the fires rage on, Newsom's call for cooperation in tackling the crisis highlights the urgent need for effective leadership and collaboration, with a focus on the well-being of those affected rather than political point-scoring.
