President-elect Donald Trump claims California’s ongoing wildfires are a direct result of Governor Gavin Newsom’s environmental decisions.
Key Facts:
– Trump posted on Truth Social, accusing Gov. Newsom of failing to sign a water restoration declaration.
– He referred to the fires as “apocalyptic,” blaming environmental policies for water shortages.
– At least four wildfires are tearing through Los Angeles County, forcing about 30,000 people to evacuate.
– Newsom’s office said it is focusing on public safety, not politics.
– Newsom declared a state of emergency, urging residents to follow evacuation orders.
The Rest of The Story:
According to Trump, Gov. Newsom’s refusal to allow more water to flow into fire-prone areas has left hydrants and firefighting planes under-supplied, making it harder to control the blaze.
Trump further claimed that the governor’s push to protect a small fish species contributed to the problem, saying it siphons water that should be available for wildfire prevention.
Officials in Los Angeles County are scrambling to contain fires spreading through Pacific Palisades, Sylmar, and other nearby neighborhoods.
Swanky homes and local infrastructure are at risk.
Some residents have reported losing their entire homes to the fast-moving flames.
Newsom’s press secretary responded to Trump’s claims by saying the administration is more concerned with saving lives than political bickering.
The governor previously stated that these wind-driven fires are highly dangerous and can spread within minutes.
He has urged citizens to heed weather reports and evacuation guidelines.
During his time on the campaign trail, Trump promised to unlock large reserves of Northern snowmelt and rainfall for drought-stricken regions of the state.
Critics say such changes could harm delicate ecosystems.
Trump, however, says relief for California is necessary, pointing to the costly property damage and tragic loss of life seen in recent years.
Experts note that wildfires are common in the state’s dry climate but can be worsened by policies that limit prescribed burns and other management strategies.
Meanwhile, environmental advocates point to climate shifts that intensify droughts, high winds, and record heat.
🚨 #BREAKING: Donald Trump just went off on California Governor Gavin Newsom – "Newscum" – as wildfires engulf his state
Trump said he is now going to "DEMAND" that Newsom allow more water flow into certain areas.
He said Newsom was more worried about protecting a "worthless… pic.twitter.com/2SHKvPhZd3
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) January 8, 2025
The Bottom Line:
Trump’s criticism of Gov. Newsom underscores a larger debate over how best to handle California’s wildfire threat.
While the state of emergency remains in effect, the priority is containing these fires and protecting lives.
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The discussion over water policy and forest management will continue long after the flames are out.