As devastating wildfires ravage California, some liberal voices have taken to social media to blame former President Donald Trump for the crisis. Sam Stein, managing editor at The Bulwark, claimed on Twitter that Trump’s past remarks about withholding federal wildfire aid were relevant to the state’s current struggles. Stein tweeted that Trump’s threats to cut wildfire relief funds “dawned on him” as fires consumed thousands of acres in Los Angeles, destroying homes and forcing evacuations.
Stein’s claim refers to a statement Trump made in 2019 criticizing California’s forest management. Trump warned that federal aid might be reduced if the state failed to address its long-standing fire prevention issues. He doubled down on this criticism during the 2024 campaign, arguing that poor forest management and environmental policies were exacerbating California’s wildfire problem.
However, critics of the current situation argue that blaming Trump ignores key issues closer to home. Democratic Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was out of the country visiting Ghana while fires burned across the region. In 2023, Bass’s administration cut nearly $20 million from the city’s fire department budget, sparking controversy over whether fire prevention and response are being prioritized.
Additionally, Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley has focused heavily on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including increasing the number of women in the department. While these efforts have gained praise from progressives, they have also drawn criticism for potentially diverting resources away from essential firefighting capabilities.
California’s wildfire crisis has long been linked to issues of forest mismanagement, environmental restrictions, and insufficient water infrastructure. Trump himself highlighted these issues during a widely discussed October 2024 appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast. He pointed to the state’s refusal to build reservoirs and implement proper forest thinning practices as key factors worsening the wildfire situation.
While some liberals focus on Trump’s rhetorical jabs, others note that California’s leadership bears responsibility for addressing the systemic failures that have contributed to recurring wildfires. As thousands face evacuation orders and property destruction, questions remain about whether state and local officials are adequately prepared to handle future disasters.
