California's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, extended an olive branch to former President Donald Trump, inviting him to Los Angeles to witness the devastation wrought by the recent wildfires and to meet with first responders. Trump's acceptance of the invitation, expressed through his Truth Social website where he described the fires as a "beautiful part" of the United States "burning down to the ground," seemed to mark a rare moment of détente between the two politicians. However, this momentary truce proved fleeting, lasting less than 24 hours.
Newsom's gesture came as he expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden for approving a major disaster declaration for California. This move commits federal resources to aid in fire management and debris removal for the next six months. Trump's historical rivalry with Newsom over environmental policies dates back to 2018, when wildfires ravaged Malibu and Paradise. At that time, Trump accused Newsom and other Democratic state leaders of "gross mismanagement" for failing to implement adequate forest management strategies, such as creating firebreaks or clearing flammable underbrush.
In his exchanges with Trump, Newsom has been vocal about defending California's wildfire prevention efforts while criticizing the federal government for insufficient support. He argued that the fears among Californians of Trump potentially withholding federal relief funds were justified. The tension escalated further when Trump demanded reforms in water policy, suggesting that more water should be diverted to California's farmers in exchange for federal disaster funds. Newsom refuted Trump's allegations that water was being withheld from Southern California to protect the delta smelt, an endangered fish species.
"You don't believe in climate change. You are excused from this conversation."
— Gavin Newsom
Newsom's criticism of Trump's environmental stance is not a new development. He has consistently highlighted what he perceives as a lack of understanding from Trump and his allies regarding climate change and its impact on wildfires.
"consistent mantra from Trump going back years and years, and it's reinforced over and over within the right wing… and it's profoundly ignorant."
— Gavin Newsom
The dialogue between Newsom and Trump took another turn with Trump's appointment of Ed Russo, a self-styled "dirt-kisser tree hugger," to an environmental advisory group. Russo has praised Trump as an "environmental hero," a characterization that starkly contrasts with Newsom's views.
"The rhetoric is very familiar, it's increasingly acute, and obviously we all have reason to be concerned about it."
— Gavin Newsom
Despite the ongoing feud, Newsom emphasized the importance of setting aside politics during times of crisis. He called for unity and cooperation in addressing the needs of those affected by the wildfires.
"In the spirit of this great country, we must not politicize human tragedy or spread disinformation from the sidelines."
— Gavin Newsom
Newsom’s call for collaboration highlights the urgency of focusing on recovery efforts for those displaced by the fires.
"Hundreds of thousands of Americans – displaced from their homes and fearful for the future – deserve to see all of us working in their best interests to ensure a fast recovery and rebuild."
— Gavin Newsom
President Biden's response to the disaster has been one of solidarity and support. He assured Californians that federal assistance would be unwavering.
"We are with you. We are not going anywhere."
— Joe Biden
The political dynamics between Newsom and Trump underscore broader debates about environmental policy and disaster management. Trump's history of contentious interactions with California leaders reflects ongoing tensions over how best to address climate-related challenges.
"He's done it in the past, not just here in California."
— Gavin Newsom
Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson associated with Trump's circle, remarked on Trump's ability to engage with various narratives.
"the president has a lot of amazing stories from his life."
— Karoline Leavitt