Liberal California may have a political ‘reawakening’ after wildfire disaster, historian predicts

Californians may be on the verge of a political awakening that could send shockwaves through the nation’s top decision-makers. Historian Victor Davis Hanson predicts that the state’s highly criticized response to the Los Angeles wildfires has exposed vulnerabilities and leadership failures, potentially leading to a revolt among liberals or Democrats.

Hanson, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution public policy think tank, believes that a group of people in California, including wealthy individuals along the coast whose homes were destroyed or damaged by the wildfires, could fuel this political shift. Celebrities like filmmaker Mel Gibson and actor Michael Rapaport have openly criticized California’s leadership for its handling of the crisis, as the blaze ravaged several Los Angeles neighborhoods.

“The shock of LA is that most of the people affected were very left-wing and very wealthy,” Hanson explained. “The consequences of their votes and ideology had never really personally affected them to this degree before.”

The destruction caused by the wildfires is expected to cost billions of dollars in damages, and those affected will have to navigate a complex web of regulations and bureaucracy to rebuild. This could lead to frustration and anger among the wealthy residents who have long supported progressive policies in the state.

The failures in California’s response to the wildfires, including empty hydrants, a malfunctioning reservoir, and a defunded fire department, have highlighted systemic issues in the state’s infrastructure and governance. Lawmakers and experts have criticized the state’s bureaucracy and lack of preparedness, calling for urgent reforms to prevent future disasters.

Governor Gavin Newsom has faced mounting backlash for his administration’s handling of the crisis, prompting him to sign an executive order to expedite the rebuilding process for homeowners affected by the wildfires. However, critics question why these measures were not implemented sooner to prevent the devastation in the first place.

California’s loss of residents to red states, known as the “California exodus,” has been a persistent problem in recent years. High taxes, unaffordable housing, crime, and business regulations have driven hundreds of thousands of people to relocate to states with more favorable conditions. Major companies like Tesla, Oracle, and Charles Schwab have also moved their headquarters out of California.

With nearly 240,000 people leaving the state between 2023 and 2024, California experienced the largest net domestic migration loss in the country during that period. The exodus has raised concerns about the state’s economic future and political landscape, as disenchanted residents seek greener pastures elsewhere.

As California grapples with the aftermath of the wildfires and the ongoing challenges of governance, there is a growing sense of discontent among residents. The potential for a political realignment or upheaval looms large, as disillusioned voters demand accountability and change from their leaders. The stage is set for a new chapter in California’s political history, one that could have far-reaching implications for the state and the nation as a whole.