Newsom Calls on Biden to Address Misinformation on Wildfire Response

California Governor Gavin Newsom made an urgent plea to President Joe Biden during a virtual meeting on Friday, asking for federal intervention to combat what he described as “misinformation” about his administration’s response to the devastating wildfires engulfing Los Angeles. Newsom alleged that false narratives circulating online are hindering relief efforts and exacerbating public divisions during the crisis.

Expressing frustration, Newsom pointed to conversations he and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have had with residents, claiming that many were influenced by misleading information. Speaking directly to Biden, Newsom emphasized, “I ask you, we’ve got to deal with this misinformation. The hurricane force, winds filled with mis-and-disinformation lies. People want to divide this country, and we’re gonna have to address that as well.”

He continued, “It breaks my heart as people are suffering and struggling, that we’re up against those hurricane forces as well. And that’s just a point of personal privilege that I share that with you because it infects real people who are out there, people I meet every single day.”

Newsom Begs Biden to ‘Deal With’ People Spreading ‘Misinformation’ On His Wildfire Response…

California Governor Gavin Newsom called on Joe Biden during a virtual meeting Friday to combat what he described as “misinformation” about his administration’s response to the… pic.twitter.com/e3akj9ZY1t

— RVM News (@redvoicenews) January 11, 2025

Newsom’s remarks were met with mixed reactions. Critics argue that his administration’s handling of the wildfire crisis has fallen short, citing reports of insufficient water pressure in fire hydrants and concerns about resource allocation. An investigation by government transparency group OpenTheBooks revealed that the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) failed to adequately fund fire hydrants despite paying high taxpayer-funded salaries to its officials.

Meanwhile, Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief Kristin Crowley has faced scrutiny for prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives over operational readiness. Critics have pointed to the LAFD’s internal “racial equity plan” as evidence that focus on staffing diversity may have detracted from addressing critical infrastructure and resource issues.

Former President Donald Trump also weighed in, accusing Newsom of neglecting practical water management policies in favor of environmental protections. Trump highlighted a federal water management plan approved during his administration that he claims Newsom refused to implement. “We had a plan to manage water effectively, but Newsom chose to prioritize a tiny fish over Californians’ safety,” Trump stated.

Adding to the controversy, Mayor Karen Bass has been criticized for traveling to Ghana during the wildfire crisis to attend the inauguration of Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama. Her absence during the fires, which have displaced over 100,000 residents and destroyed thousands of homes, has raised questions about her priorities and leadership during a time of crisis.

The wildfires have caused widespread devastation, particularly in areas like Eaton Canyon and Pacific Palisades. Thousands of families have been forced to evacuate with little warning, returning to find their homes reduced to ashes. Heart-wrenching accounts from affected residents highlight the immense toll of the disaster.

During a visit to a wildfire-stricken area, Newsom faced public outrage when an emotional mother confronted him about the destruction of her daughter’s school. She criticized the lack of water resources available to firefighters and questioned the state’s preparedness and response to the crisis.

A viral video capturing the encounter shows the woman demanding answers, while Newsom appeared unable to provide a satisfactory response. The clip has fueled further criticism of his leadership during the ongoing emergency.

In response to the mounting challenges, a spokesperson for Newsom announced that the governor had secured a commitment from President Biden to cover 100% of the wildfire response costs for the next 180 days. This federal support aims to bolster California’s relief efforts and provide much-needed resources to affected communities.

As the wildfires continue to rage, the focus remains on addressing immediate relief needs and systemic issues within California’s emergency management framework. The crisis has brought to light significant gaps in resource allocation, infrastructure, and leadership priorities. While Newsom’s call to combat misinformation may resonate with some, others argue that tangible solutions to these pressing issues are urgently needed.

This wildfire season serves as a stark reminder of the challenges California faces in balancing environmental policies, infrastructure demands, and disaster response. As displaced residents rebuild their lives, questions about leadership and accountability will undoubtedly persist. For now, the hope is that federal and state collaboration can provide a path forward for the communities most affected by this unprecedented devastation.