President-elect Donald Trump criticized the response of local officials in California to the devastating wildfires, while also failing to accept an invitation to visit the affected areas himself.
At least 24 people have lost their lives in the disaster, with thousands of homes destroyed and more destruction expected due to extreme winds.
Despite California Governor Gavin Newsom’s invitation for Trump to tour the damage, the incoming president has not made a public response.
Newsom reached out to Trump in a conciliatory manner, but Trump chose to continue his criticism of local leaders on his Truth Social platform instead of visiting California.
Trump questioned the competence of the politicians in handling the wildfires, labeling the situation as one of the worst catastrophes in the country’s history.
He also reposted a meme on Truth Social portraying the Hollywood Hills engulfed in flames with the words “Trump Was Right,” among other pro-Trump and anti-Democrat posts.
Trump’s remote comments have included misleading accusations against Governor Newsom, such as claiming Newsom refused to sign a non-existent “water restoration declaration.”
Newsom’s office clarified that the governor’s focus is on protecting people and providing resources to firefighters, not engaging in political games.
Trump’s false claims about the lack of water for fire hydrants were debunked by fact-checkers, but he continued to criticize local officials and policies on addressing climate change.
In a post on Jan. 9, Trump targeted Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, President Joe Biden, FEMA, and Green New Deal proposals while declaring Los Angeles a “total wipeout.”
Despite these criticisms, Newsom extended an invitation to Trump to visit the devastated areas and express gratitude to first responders risking their lives.
