The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have claimed the lives of ten individuals as of Friday morning, with thousands displaced this week. Amidst this calamity, President Joe Biden visited California on Wednesday, extending federal disaster support to the afflicted state. Meanwhile, Seth Meyers addressed the wildfires on his show, highlighting both the tragedy and the resilience displayed by emergency responders.
“The kindness and compassion and resourcefulness and solidarity on display have been nothing short of breathtaking and awe-inspiring,” – Seth Meyers
In a rare convergence, the funeral of Jimmy Carter, America's longest-living chief executive, brought together all five living former or current U.S. presidents. This significant gathering underscored Carter's profound impact on the nation. Attendees included Donald and Melania Trump, marking an uncommon occasion where the couple appeared together publicly.
“It is incredibly rare to have five American presidents in the same room together, and even rarer to have Donald and Melania in the same room together” – Desi Lydic
In contrast to the somber mood at Carter’s funeral, Stephen Colbert lightened the atmosphere with humor, jesting about the VIP nature of the guest list. Desi Lydic also contributed to the levity, commenting on the funeral music choices and making a pointed remark about Kamala Harris.
“I don’t know if that funeral music was for Carter or for her” – Desi Lydic
Despite these moments of levity, the focus remained on the ongoing crisis in California. Former President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to criticize the Biden administration's handling of the wildfires. He specifically pointed fingers at California Governor Gavin Newsom for not signing a non-existent "water restoration declaration," drawing ire from critics.
“NO WATER IN THE FIRE HYDRANTS, NO MONEY IN FEMA. THIS IS WHAT JOE BIDEN IS LEAVING ME. THANKS JOE!” – Donald Trump
Seth Meyers responded sharply to Trump's remarks, emphasizing the need for truthful leadership in times of crisis. Meyers highlighted the importance of acknowledging climate change as a critical factor in such disasters.
“I think it’s also important to say again in this moment that climate change is real, it is an imminent and existential threat to the lives and safety of Americans and we must treat it like the crisis it is,” – Seth Meyers
The bravery exhibited by firefighters and emergency workers has been extraordinary throughout this challenging week. Their efforts have been widely acknowledged, with many suggesting that these heroes should never have to pay for a beer or a matcha smoothie again.
“It’s as clear as ever that people desperately want to help one another. Which is why we deserve leaders and institutions who will do the same.” – Seth Meyers
On a lighter note, President Biden celebrated a personal milestone as he became the first sitting U.S. president to become a great-grandfather. His eldest granddaughter welcomed a baby boy into the world, adding a moment of joy amidst the week's challenges.
“Unfortunately, there are politicians who would rather spread lies about the emergency response.” – Seth Meyers