California Governor Gavin Newsom is reaching out to President-elect Donald Trump after the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. He offered an “open hand, not a closed fist,” emphasizing unity during this crisis.
Invitation to witness the destruction
In an interview, Newsom invited Trump to visit California and witness the destruction firsthand. He expressed hope that federal aid would arrive without restrictive conditions. “There’s no American success without California’s success,” Newsom stated, standing near the ruins of a burned home. “We’re in this together. I’m sincere about welcoming him here.”
Past collaboration during COVID-19
Newsom highlighted his previous collaboration with Trump during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I worked with him like no other Democratic governor,” he said. “We got along personally behind the scenes. That’s the approach I’ll take moving forward.” He expressed pride in their past teamwork and hoped for a similar dynamic now.
Concerns over grudges and federal aid
The governor also urged Trump to avoid holding grudges. “In 2018, Trump said he hated Jerry Brown and threatened to withhold FEMA funding due to disagreements,” Newsom said. “He’s done this in Puerto Rico and other states. But we hope that’s just rhetoric.”
Newsom warned that such rhetoric affects public confidence and perception. He stressed the importance of federal support to rebuild communities ravaged by the wildfires.
The fires, fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds, have claimed 27 lives and destroyed billions in property. Their intensity could rank them among the costliest disasters in U.S. history. When asked about the cause, Newsom avoided speculation. “No one has determined anything yet,” he said. “There are rumors and misinformation, but we need to let investigators do their job.”
Speculation about the cause
MSNBC’s Psaki mentioned reports suggesting human activity might have sparked the fires. Newsom agreed but cautioned against jumping to conclusions. “Independent analysis is crucial,” he said. “We need facts, not myths.”
Criticism of Elon Musk’s comments
The governor also criticized billionaire Elon Musk for spreading misinformation. Musk suggested the fires were caused by overregulation and poor governance, not climate change. “It’s damaging to the truth,” Newsom said. “I’ve known Musk for 20 years and admired his entrepreneurial spirit. But his recent comments are concerning.”
Newsom noted a shift in Musk’s stance on climate change. “He used to be a strong advocate,” Newsom said. “Now he claims it’s happening slower than alarmists predict. I don’t know what changed, but it’s troubling.”
The governor urged the public to stay focused on the bigger picture. “This moment is bigger than Trump or Musk,” he said. “We need unity and truth to rebuild and move forward.”
