Official announcements from the office of Governor Newsom or President-elect Trump, or coverage by major news outlets

After Trump's 'Incompetent' Remark, Newsom Invites President-elect to Tour Los Angeles Wildfire Damage

Jan 12, 2025, 12:50 AM

President-elect Donald Trump has criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom over the handling of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County, accusing state officials of incompetence and mismanagement, and calling for Newsom to resign. Trump, posting on Truth Social, described the wildfires as 'one of the worst catastrophes in the history of our Country' and questioned why officials 'just can't put out the fires,' asking, 'What's wrong with them?' In response, Governor Newsom sent a letter on Friday inviting Trump to visit California to witness the fire damage firsthand, meet with wildfire victims, and tour the devastation. Writing with 'respect and open hand,' Newsom emphasized, 'We must not politicize human tragedy or spread disinformation from the sidelines.' The exchange highlights the ongoing feud between Trump and Newsom as wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles, destroying thousands of homes and causing numerous deaths.