LA Fires: What Caused Them and How Are Politicians Responding?

As wildfires burn through Los Angeles, politicians and media outlets have engaged in dialogue about the causes and handling of the fires.

Out of Season: An analysis from the Associated Press (Left bias) described the fires as the “most devastating winter fires in more than four decades,” and noted that while it is not typically fire season, “specific ingredients have come together to defy the calendar in a fast and deadly manner.” Experts said that LA’s previous two winters were abnormally wet, and then a quick transition to drought provided what AP called “perfect tinder.” AP also noted high-speed winds, which spread the fires quickly, and voices who linked climate change to the circumstances.

Quiet Mayor: A news article from The New York Post (Lean Right bias) highlighted that Mayor Karen Bass would not answer a Sky News (Lean Left bias) reporter's question about being in Africa when the fires started and cutting the LA Fire Department’s budget by $17.6 million for fiscal year 2024-2025.

Trump Blames Newsom: A news article from The Hill (Center bias) highlighted a Truth Social post from incoming President Donald Trump calling for Gov. Gavin Newsom to resign. Trump also wrote, “I will demand that this incompetent governor allow beautiful, clean, fresh water to FLOW INTO CALIFORNIA!” echoing comments he made on the Joe Rogan podcast in October. The Hill included a comment from Newsom, who said, “This guy wanted to politicize it. I have a lot of thoughts, and I know what I wanna say. I won’t.”