Special Poll
California Governor Gavin Newsom has voiced strong criticism against President-elect Trump, accusing him of jeopardizing the safety of first responders by politicizing the wildfire crisis in Los Angeles. During a “Meet the Press” interview on NBC News, Newsom responded to Trump’s threats to withdraw federal aid for California’s firefighting efforts as he prepares to re-enter office.
Newsom highlighted Trump’s pattern of using threats against states and political figures with whom he disagrees, quoting Trump’s statement from the campaign trail that he would withhold support for California’s emergency management unless they complied with his demands.
As he faces the immediate challenges of managing widespread fires in California, Newsom expressed serious concerns about Trump’s approach to governance by intimidation. Despite acknowledging Trump’s election victory, Newsom contrasted Trump’s stance with the swift federal assistance California received from President Joe Biden, which included a major disaster declaration and full financial support for the state’s emergency services.
Governor Newsom extended an invitation to Trump to witness the devastation caused by the fires firsthand, in hopes of fostering a more cooperative federal response. He also addressed Trump’s criticism regarding state water management policies, specifically the protection of the smelt fish, which limits water pumping from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Newsom clarified the state’s reservoir conditions and dismissed the misinformation circulating about water resource management.
In his plea for continued support, Newsom emphasized the need for unity and effective collaboration at the federal level to manage the state’s crises effectively.