Newsom, Trump trade fiery barbs as wildfires ravage Los Angeles

California Governor Gavin Newsom has fired back at President-elect Donald Trump for comments he made regarding the response to the deadly wildfires currently devastating Southern California. Trump accused Newsom of not doing a good job in handling the wildfires, but also mentioned that they had worked well together in the past and would do so again when he takes office later this month.

During a press conference, Trump criticized Newsom for not allowing water to be pumped to the affected areas, stating that the water was being diverted to protect a small fish. However, Newsom’s press office released a statement on social media explaining that there were valid reasons for not using the pumps. The statement clarified that the high water demand and ongoing fires hampered the ability of crews to access the pumps, so water tenders were used as an alternative solution.

Newsom’s office also refuted claims of a water shortage in Southern California, stating that water reliability and supply were stable. They quoted California officials who confirmed that there was enough water to supply 40 million people for a year.

Trump continued his criticism of Newsom, accusing him of refusing to sign a water restoration declaration and blaming him for the low containment of the fires. However, Newsom’s office clarified that there was no such document as a water restoration declaration and emphasized that the conveyance of water to Southern California was separate from local water supply.

In response to Trump’s relentless attacks, Newsom refused to engage in political gamesmanship and instead focused on the devastating impact of the wildfires on communities. He praised President Biden for his non-political approach to the crisis and emphasized the need for unity in addressing the wildfires.

The wildfires in Southern California have already forced over 100,000 people to evacuate their homes and are threatening thousands of structures. At least five people have been killed in the fires, prompting Newsom to declare a state of emergency. Despite the challenges, Newsom remains committed to leading the response efforts and ensuring the safety of Californians affected by the wildfires.