California Governor Gavin Newsom has launched a new website, californiafirefacts.com, to combat what he calls "misinformation" surrounding the ongoing Southern California wildfires.
The site addresses claims regarding firefighting budgets, forest management, and water supply, as fires continue to threaten key locations such as the Getty Museum and UCLA. Newsom has faced heavy criticism for his handling of the fires, with President-elect Donald Trump labeling him "Newscum" on Truth Social, blaming him for the disaster.
As of now, at least 11 fatalities have been reported, including five from the Palisades fire and six from the Eaton fire, according to the LA County medical examiner. Over 12,000 structures have been destroyed, with both working-class areas and affluent neighborhoods, including the Will Rogers Western Ranch House and an 1887 Queen Anne mansion, suffering severe damage.
With no significant rainfall in over eight months, emergency crews are working hard to prevent the fires from crossing Interstate 405, which could lead flames into the Hollywood Hills and San Fernando Valley.
Key Details:
Newsom’s office has accused California Assembly Republicans of spreading "false and misleading information" after they claimed the governor had reduced funding for fire prevention by 80% since 2021.
In response, Newsom’s team clarified that the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) budget had nearly doubled from $2 billion to $3.8 billion since he took office in 2019. However, the independent California Legislative Analyst's Office reported a $101 million reduction in the 2024-25 budget for wildfire and forest resilience.
Conservative outlets and social media have also pushed narratives about budget cuts, alleged government negligence, and secret real estate deals contributing to the fire's spread. Despite this, the state has mobilized over 12,000 emergency personnel and 1,660 firefighting vehicles.
The California National Guard has doubled its presence to 1,680 members, with over 1,000 Military Police Forces managing traffic control points.
The Palisades Fire has become the most destructive in LA’s history, burning 5,300 structures.
Current Fire Status (CAL FIRE):
- Palisades Fire: 22,660 acres, 11% contained
- Eaton Fire: 14,117 acres, 15% contained
- Kenneth Fire: 1,052 acres, 80% contained
- Hurst Fire: 799 acres, 76% contained
From Governor Newsom:
- “California did NOT cut our firefighting budget. We’ve nearly doubled the size of our firefighting force and built the world’s largest aerial firefighting fleet.”
- “We’ve increased forest management ten-fold since we took office.”
- “California will NOT tolerate looting.”
Budget Dispute:
- California Assembly Republicans claim an 80% reduction in fire prevention funding since 2021.
- Newsom’s office highlights a doubled CAL FIRE budget from $2B to $3.8B since 2019.
- Forest management funding rose from $200M to $2.2B annually.
- The Legislative Analyst’s Office confirmed a $101M reduction in the 2024-25 wildfire budget.
What Others Are Saying:
Governor Gavin Newsom: "I’m not interested in politicizing a natural disaster."
On Trump’s criticism: "I’d like to have that conversation with the next president of the United States. Let’s turn the page and have the spirit of cooperation from the incoming president, supporting those who need it to recover."
County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath: "We had another night of unimaginable terror and heartbreak, with more Angelenos evacuated due to the northeast expansion of the Palisades Fire."
CAL FIRE on X: "California has expanded its response efforts, welcoming help from Texas, Canada, and Mexico, alongside neighboring states already providing crucial support. These reinforcements are vital for containment and giving relief to firefighters on the frontlines. #LAfires #MutualAid"
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings about possible Santa Ana winds, while Newsom has ordered an investigation into water infrastructure failures.
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