In a heated exchange, former President Donald Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom have reignited tensions over the handling of California's wildfire crisis. Trump criticized Newsom for mismanaging forestry and water policy in the state and threatened to impose conditions on future federal aid. In response, Newsom extended an invitation to Trump to witness the devastation in Pacific Palisades and Altadena firsthand. While Trump accepted the invitation, the timing of his visit remains uncertain.
Newsom accused Trump of disseminating what he described as "hurricane-force winds of mis- and disinformation." One of Trump's repeated claims is that the fierce Los Angeles fires were exacerbated by firefighters' lack of access to water. Newsom countered this assertion, highlighting that southern California's reservoirs were full when the fires erupted. He further explained that no amount of water could have contained brush fires fueled by 100 mph winds.
The political discord extends beyond environmental issues. Trump labeled Newsom an "idiot" regarding immigration policy and associated him with the "radical left." Newsom, however, emphasized that the problems caused by the fires transcend politics. In a letter to congressional leaders, he stressed that Americans should support each other irrespective of party affiliation.
“Our long national history of responding to natural disasters, no matter where they occur, has always been Americans helping Americans, full stop,” – Gavin Newsom
The Biden administration has already secured a significant amount of emergency federal aid for California. Reflecting on past administrations, Trump's first term faced criticism for delaying $20 billion in federal funds for Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria in 2017. Meanwhile, Newsom's predecessor, Jerry Brown, adopted a more low-key approach when engaging with the Trump administration during the 2018 wildfires.
Trump's criticisms extended to perceptions of helplessness in the face of disaster.
“It looked like our country was just helpless,” – Donald Trump
In contrast, Newsom's senior adviser Robert Salladay underscored the importance of timely disaster assistance.
“Disaster assistance should not be delayed or denied based on how people voted. That would be un-American,” – Gavin Newsom's senior adviser Robert Salladay
Observers like Kevin Carroll have expressed concerns about Trump's motivations.
“It was clear that Trump was entirely self-interested and vengeful towards those he perceived didn’t vote for him,” – Kevin Carroll
Amid these tensions, some voices remain hopeful for bipartisan cooperation.
“I’m hopeful they [Newsom and Trump] are going to rise above it and do the right thing.” – Rick Caruso
Salladay reiterated California's stance on disinformation and collaboration with the federal government.
“We will protect California against the flood of disinformation and assaults on our shared values, and work cooperatively with President Trump wherever possible,” – Gavin Newsom's senior adviser Robert Salladay