Official statements from the Los Angeles City Council or major news outlets

125,000 Demand LA Mayor Karen Bass Resign Over Wildfire Mismanagement After Ghana Trip

Jan 14, 2025, 05:06 PM

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is facing intense scrutiny and calls for her resignation following her absence from the city during the outbreak of devastating wildfires. Over 125,000 people have signed a petition demanding Bass step down, citing her 'gross mismanagement' and lack of leadership during the crisis. Bass was in Ghana for the inauguration of their president when the fires erupted, despite having promised during her 2021 mayoral campaign that she would not travel internationally if elected. The wildfires, which have killed at least 24 people and destroyed over 10,000 homes, have been exacerbated by budget cuts to the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) under Bass's administration, with LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley criticizing the city's decision to reduce funding by $17.6 million, saying it hindered the department's response. Upon her return to Los Angeles, Bass remained silent when confronted by a reporter about her absence and the budget cuts. She has faced criticism from public figures including Elon Musk, who called her 'utterly incompetent', and Khloe Kardashian, who labeled her a 'joke' for her handling of the crisis. Bass defended the budget cuts, asserting they did not impact the city's response to the fires, a claim disputed by Crowley. Bass maintained she was in constant communication with city officials during her absence and promised a comprehensive review of the city's response once the fires are contained.