California Governor Gavin Newsom invited President-elect Donald Trump to visit California through a social media post on Friday afternoon.
Why It Matters
Governor Newsom faces intense criticism following the deadly wildfires that have devastated Los Angeles County this week. President-elect Trump has also targeted Newsom on his Truth Social platform, demanding his resignation. Amid the backlash, Newsom has called for a review of the water pressure issues affecting fire hydrants in the affected areas.
Key Details
The Wildfires:
- Eaton Fire: This fire, impacting Pasadena and Altadena, has claimed six lives, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). Spanning 13,690 acres, the fire is only three percent contained. Its cause is still under investigation.
- Palisade Fire: Burning in Pacific Palisades and Malibu, this fire has resulted in three fatalities. CAL FIRE reports that the fire has scorched 21,317 acres and is eight percent contained. Its cause is also under investigation.
Impact:
Thousands of structures remain under threat. CAL FIRE has provided a 3D map of evacuation zones for affected residents.
While inspecting fire-damaged areas on Thursday, Newsom faced criticism from a Pacific Palisades resident about the state’s lack of preparedness and the ongoing water pressure issues.
Federal Coordination:Newsom discussed the situation with President Joe Biden, highlighting the need to combat what he described as "disinformation" circulating during this emergency.
Statements
Governor Gavin Newsom on X (formerly Twitter):".@realDonaldTrump, 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 working together, not politicizing a human tragedy or spreading disinformation from the sidelines."
President-elect Donald Trump on Truth Social:"Governor Gavin Newscum should immediately go to Northern California and open up the water main, letting the water flow into his dry, starving, burning State, instead of allowing it to pour into the Pacific Ocean. This must be done now. NO MORE EXCUSES FROM THIS INCOMPETENT GOVERNOR. IT'S ALREADY FAR TOO LATE!"
What’s Next
It is unclear whether President-elect Trump plans to visit the fire-stricken areas of Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service predicts Santa Ana winds will intensify over the weekend and potentially extend into next week, further complicating firefighting efforts.
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