California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, has responded to the public’s frustration over the state’s handling of recent wildfires by attributing delays and miscommunications to local leaders and engaging in a feud with President-elect Donald Trump.
In an interview on the liberal podcast “Pod Save America,” Newsom acknowledged the anger among those affected by the wildfires but highlighted that he has been struggling to get clear information from local authorities. He stated, “I’m the governor of California and want to know the answer,” pointing out his own team’s inquiries into what went wrong have been met with vague responses.
He said, “I’ll be candid with you, I wasn’t getting straight answers,” regarding his discussions with local leaders, which he suggests has hindered effective response efforts. Newsom has given these local leaders “a little bit of grace,” recognizing they are dealing with an “emergency environment,” but also noted that patience among the public is running thin.
The governor also took aim at Trump, with whom he has had previous confrontations, especially after Trump criticized Newsom’s leadership during the wildfires. Trump accused Newsom of poor management, stating, “It’s very sad because I’ve been trying to get Gavin Newsom to allow water to come – you’d have tremendous water up there, they send it out from the Pacific – because they’re trying to protect a tiny little fish.”
Trump’s comments refer to environmental policies aimed at protecting certain fish species, which he claims have led to water mismanagement during the crisis.
In response, Newsom’s office clarified that high water demand and ongoing fires have impacted water supply logistics, explaining that pump stations at lower elevations lacked sufficient pressure to refill higher elevation tanks, and fire conditions made it difficult for crews to access these pumps.
Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump’s transition team, sharply criticized Newsom, suggesting he focus on his gubernatorial duties rather than deflecting blame, saying, “Instead of appearing on liberal podcasts, maybe Newscum [sic] should be doing his f—ing job and actually help people who continue to suffer under his terrible leadership.”
Newsom sees the writing on the wall. The people are seeing through the failed leadership that has plagued California for decades and he’s trying to position himself as one of the victims. Los Angeles officials did it. Trump did it. He’ll do and say anything other than accept responsibilities for his role in the unmitigated disaster.
Article generated from corporate media reports.
