Reports from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection or verified news outlets

President-elect Trump Blames Newsom for LA Wildfires, Calls for Governor's Resignation

Jan 9, 2025, 08:24 AM

President-elect Donald Trump has blamed California Governor Gavin Newsom for the massive wildfires raging through Los Angeles County, arguing that Newsom's mismanagement of water and forest resources led to the disaster. In statements, Trump criticized Newsom—whom he referred to as "Gavin Newscum"—for refusing to sign a water restoration declaration to redirect millions of gallons to wildfire-stricken areas and for not properly managing forests to prevent fires. He highlighted reports of dry fire hydrants due to empty reservoirs and called on Newsom to resign, stating, "One of the best and most beautiful parts of the United States of America is burning down to the ground. It's ashes, and Gavin Newscum should resign. This is all his fault!" Trump also noted that he had previously warned about the risk of wildfires due to poor water and forest management, including during an appearance on the Joe Rogan podcast. Newsom responded by accusing Trump of politicizing the wildfires, saying, "One can't even respond to it... This guy wanted to politicize it." The ongoing feud between Trump and Newsom over California's water policies has intensified amidst the crisis, with over 80,000 evacuated, more than 20,000 acres burned, and at least five deaths reported as the wildfires continue to devastate Southern California.