Editor’s Correspondence — January 11, 2025

The Situation: The government’s handling of the historic wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles.

I consider myself fortunate, now grappling with only the terrible smoke (“California Reaming,” Jan. 10).
We had a significant scare last Thursday when the West Hills fire erupted, close enough to cause panic and a rush to gather our belongings.

It is outrageous that Gov. Gavin Newsom, who was warned multiple times in the past regarding the inadequate fire preparedness—particularly in terms of water resources—is shifting the blame onto “the locals.”

The responsibility ultimately lies with the well-groomed Newsom and our newly appointed mayor. The recovery effort, if it can even be labeled as such, will be an overwhelming challenge, but citizens must voice their opinions at the polls next time.

Amy Hendel

Tarzana, Calif.

The fires in Los Angeles are partly a product of Democratic policies (“LA’s Cursed ‘Leadership,’ ” Jan. 10).
Mayor Karen Bass has presided over budget cuts to the Fire Department, likely diverting funds toward the escalating homeless crisis.

The Port of Los Angeles received a $412 million federal grant aimed at supporting zero-emission initiatives—funds that should have gone to water resources and the Fire Department. The significant emissions resulting from these fires could have been avoided.

Gamaliel Isaac

Manhattan

To Mayor Karen Bass: Thank you for prioritizing your trip to Africa amidst the ongoing fire crises, while remaining silent when questioned about the fires by a journalist.
Also, I appreciate your support for a $17.6 million cut to the LA Fire Department.

To the US Forest Service: Thank you for continuing to uphold outdated forestry practices. The current fire devastation is partly attributable to your policies.

Steven A. Fontana

Aliso Viejo, Calif.

Is it the job of the press to report the news, or merely to echo whatever President-elect Trump states without proper fact-checking (“Don dig at Newsom,” Jan. 9)?

Los Angeles is ablaze, and Trump blames it on Newsom prioritizing the protection of an endangered fish. Is that truly the reason for Los Angeles’s fires? No, it isn’t.

The intensity of these fires stems from extreme winds and drought caused by climate change. The press should take the responsibility to educate readers on this issue.

While valid criticism of leadership during a crisis is important, spreading falsehoods to incite hatred is not.

What does it say about Trump that he seizes upon disaster to further polarize America rather than unite it?

Andrew Evans

Oakland, Calif.

There will be a classic photo of Gavin Newsom standing with his hands in the back pockets of his gubernatorial jeans, gazing at the distant fire, that will resonate for generations. Nero would be envious.

Countless acres of land, numerous homes, lives, and wildlife have been lost. It’s unfortunate Newsom didn’t allocate some funds for essential infrastructure instead of guppy initiatives. Many constituents, wildlife, and natural vegetation in LA are enduring suffering today and will continue to do so for years.

Jack Condon

Huntington Station

Why is no one in California asking the tough questions?

Did the mayor cut Fire Department funding to cover expenses for accommodating homeless migrants?

Los Angeles is a sanctuary city, and Newsom aims for all California cities to follow suit. If that’s the case, then California is lost.

Dan Carr

San Diego, Calif.

Regrettably, it took the most catastrophic wildfires in California’s history to awaken the affluent and privileged.

Trump warned Newsom years ago that neglecting forest management and mismanaging water would lead to disastrous outcomes; once again, he was correct.

Will residents continue to elect individuals who are unfit to govern a state rife with wildfires, particularly those who slash fire department budgets? Californians must demand the resignation of Newsom and Bass immediately.

Betsy Flor

Putnam Valley

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